Gastric banding
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Gastric banding is a type of weight loss surgery that involves placing an inflatable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach to decrease stomach size and reduce food intake.
The band is attached to a tube which is accessible through a port under the skin of the abdomen. Using this port, saline solution can be injected into the band to inflate it and likewise, deflate it if necessary. Adjustments can alter the degree of constriction around the stomach. This affects the rate at which food passes from the pouch into the lower part of your stomach. |
Having a smaller stomach pouch reduces the amount of food that the stomach can hold at any one time which results in an increased feeling of satiety (fullness) after eating a smaller amount of food. This, in turn, reduces hunger and helps reduce your overall food intake.
An advantage of this form of bariatric procedure is that it allows food to be digested as usual, without malabsorption. Most patients lose between 30-50% of their excess weight. Speak to your Dietitian if you are not sure what your excess weight is. One of the disadvantages of this procedure is that you may need to have the band removed or replaced, for example if the band slips down or leaks.
Having Bariatric surgery is life changing. It’s important to understand exactly what’s involved in the procedure, including any potential complications and what to expect afterwards. Having said that, surgery can be extremely successful for those who are willing to make long term consistent changes to their diet and lifestyle.
An advantage of this form of bariatric procedure is that it allows food to be digested as usual, without malabsorption. Most patients lose between 30-50% of their excess weight. Speak to your Dietitian if you are not sure what your excess weight is. One of the disadvantages of this procedure is that you may need to have the band removed or replaced, for example if the band slips down or leaks.
Having Bariatric surgery is life changing. It’s important to understand exactly what’s involved in the procedure, including any potential complications and what to expect afterwards. Having said that, surgery can be extremely successful for those who are willing to make long term consistent changes to their diet and lifestyle.
