The Adjustable Gastric Banding, also known as a lap band, is a type of weight loss surgery which will allow gradual weight loss. The procedure is typically applied in patients that are too obese for other types of weight loss surgery such as liposuction.

Candidates for Adjustable Gastric Banding

The Adjustable Gastric Banding is a type of bariatric surgery that is recommended for candidates that are obese and morbidly obese and would not qualify as candidates for liposuction. Surgeons may also look at the body mass index (BMI) of the patient, which should be over 35 in order to qualify for the Adjustable Gastric Banding surgery.

How Adjustable Gastric Banding Is Performed

Presently, the Adjustable Gastric Banding can be performed laparoscopically (with only a small incision necessary and a tiny guiding video camera) or through traditional surgery, which will involve an incision and the placement of the gastric band on the outside part of the stomach. A small pouch will be created and this will be the new size of the patient’s stomach.

Given that obese patients are exposed to several risks during traditional surgery, the laparoscopic option is more recommended. As the patient will lose weight, the gastric band can be adjusted and this is typically done laparoscopically also.

Results of Adjustable Gastric Banding

The Adjustable Gastric Banding is not a weight loss surgery per se, but will contribute to weight loss in time. The results won’t be visible after the surgery, as the patient will need to adapt to his new stomach and start a regimen that will contain less food and fewer calories. If the diet is suitable and the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle, he will shed pounds. The optimal results may be visible in six to 30 months after the surgery, depending on the patient’s diet and the amount of weight he has to get rid of.

On average, patients that have a gastric band will lose between 500-1500 grams per week during the first few months after the surgery (and less after the patient advances in the weight loss).

Risks of Adjustable Gastric Banding

Even if the Adjustable Gastric Banding surgery will reduce obesity and the problems and risks associated with this condition (i.e. sleep apnea, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, GERD or high blood pressure), the procedure may have several risks. Also, the presence of the adjustable band may present a few complications:

  • Gastric ulcers
  • Erosion or slipping of the band, which should be adjusted as soon as the problem is detected
  • Infections
  • Internal bleeding

Side Effects of Gastric Banding

The gastric banding may have a number of side effects such as:

  • Nausea and vomiting, especially during the first few weeks
  • Dilatation of the pouch, so the patient will be able to eat more and may not lose weight effectively
  • Abdominal and chest pain
  • Gastro esophageal reflux
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Hair loss

Despite of the side effects, the bariatric weight loss surgery is highly recommended and may be a viable solution for patients that want to lose weight and make a change that will have a positive effect on their health.