Gastric Band Surgery

What is it?

• An inflatable silicone band that is placed around the top part of the stomach, creating a pouch.

How does it work?

• The band restricts the amount of food that can be eaten.
• Attached to the band is a port which is placed just under the skin. The port can be accessed with a needle to inflate or deflate the band after surgery.

Why is it good?

• Quick and simple procedure
• No permanent changes to the stomach
• Can be removed
• Low operative risk

Why might it not be good?

• Commitment to follow-up needed to achieve good results
• A number of consultations required to inflate the band to the optimum level
• A small number of people do not lose weight

What are the risks?

• Band erosion (5%) - movement of the band from outside stomach to inside
• Band slippage (5%) - movement of the band down the stomach
• Port related problems (10%)
• Band infection (2%)
• Perforation of stomach (0.001%)

What results can I expect?

• Excess weight loss (50%)

What do I need to do?

• Be committed to work with the band
• Follow dietary advice
• Keep your follow-up appointments to ensure your band restriction is achieved and maintained