Gastric Banding
Gastric Banding Related Terms:
Gastric Bypass, Plastic Surgery, Bariatric Surgery, Body Procedures, Cosmetic Surgery, Gastric Bypass, Lap Band, Lap Band, Stomach Stapling, Surgeon, Vertical Banded Gastroplasty, Weight Loss, Weight Loss Surgery
What Is Gastric Banding Surgery?
Gastric banding is a plastic surgery procedure where an adjustable band is placed around the top of the stomach. The attachment of this “gastric band” creates a small pouch on top of the stomach which helps patients in weight loss through appetite control.
Who Should Opt For It?
Gastric banding is an extreme weight loss measure that is advised only for people who are morbidly overweight (BMI>40) and who have been unable to control their weight through regular means like exercise, dieting and supplements. It is also advised for people with heart disease, diabetes and other weight related ailments who have a BMI less than 40 but whose weight is more hazardous than others. It is a safer and less invasive option for those considering gastric bypass.
The Gastric Banding Procedure
Gastric banding surgery is performed under general anesthesia where the surgeon makes a number of small incisions in order to introduce the silicone band on top of the stomach pouch. A small reservoir, which helps in tightening the gastric band after surgery is also inserted inside the skin. In most cases, the procedure is totally laparoscopic.
Benefits
The pouch created by gastric banding limits the intake of food while providing a sense of fullness even when small amounts are eaten. This helps patients who have undergone this procedure in losing weight over a long period of time. A monitoring of patients after two years showed an average weight loss of 23 kgs combined with an improvement in the condition of ailments like diabetes, blood pressure, high cholesterol, gastro-esophageal reflux, asthma, sleep apnea, depression and infertility.
Risks and Side Effects
Apart from the risks of regular surgery, some other serious complications that may occur in gastric banding surgery are band slipping, peritonitis, pulmonary embolism, band erosion, hernia and gall bladder inflammation.
Costs
In the US, gastric banding surgery compiled with post and pre-operative procedures and care can cost you approximately $15,000 to 30,000.