GASTRIC BANDING ​

Gastric banding works by restricting the amount of food that can be consumed and creating a feeling of fullness with smaller portions. Here’s how the gastric banding procedure works:

1. Placement of the gastric band: During the surgical procedure, a silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. The band is adjustable and has a narrow passage, which limits the amount of food that can pass through to the rest of the stomach.

2. Adjusting the band: The band is connected to an access port, which is implanted beneath the skin of the abdomen. The access port allows for adjustments to be made to the tightness of the band. Adjustments are done by injecting or removing saline solution from the band through the access port. This adjustment process can be performed during follow-up visits to optimize weight loss and manage any potential complications.

3. Restricting food intake: The smaller upper pouch created by the gastric band restricts the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. It creates an earlier feeling of fullness, reducing the desire to eat larger portions. This helps individuals control their portion sizes and caloric intake, ultimately leading to weight loss.

4. Slowing down digestion: The gastric band also slows down the passage of food from the upper pouch to the lower stomach. This prolongs the feeling of fullness and helps individuals feel satisfied with smaller amounts of food. The slower digestion process can also help regulate blood sugar levels and improve satiety.

5. Lifestyle changes and support: Gastric banding is typically combined with comprehensive lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity. Behavioral counseling and support from healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and support groups are often recommended to help individuals make sustainable lifestyle modifications for successful long-term weight management.

Candidates for gastric band surgery typically include:

1. Body Mass Index (BMI): Gastric band surgery is generally considered for individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, which is classified as severe obesity. It may also be considered for individuals with a BMI of 35 to 39.9 if they have significant obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.

2. Failed weight loss attempts: Candidates for gastric band surgery have typically attempted other methods of weight loss, such as diet and exercise, without long-term success. The surgery is often considered when other approaches have not resulted in sustainable weight loss or improvement in related health conditions.

3. Committed to lifestyle changes: Successful outcomes with gastric band surgery require a commitment to lifestyle changes. Candidates should be willing to make long-term dietary modifications, engage in regular physical activity, and adhere to follow-up appointments for adjustments and ongoing support.

4. Age and health status: Age and overall health are important considerations. Gastric band surgery is generally recommended for individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 who are in good overall health, free from significant medical conditions that would increase the risks of surgery.

5. Psychological evaluation: Candidates for gastric band surgery may undergo a psychological evaluation to assess their readiness for the procedure and determine their ability to cope with the physical and emotional changes associated with weight loss.

The amount of weight an individual can lose with Lap-Band or gastric band surgery can vary widely depending on various factors, including their starting weight, adherence to lifestyle changes, and individual metabolism. It’s important to note that weight loss results are not guaranteed, and individual experiences can differ.

On average, individuals who undergo Lap-Band surgery can expect to lose approximately 40% to 50% of their excess body weight within the first year after surgery. Excess weight refers to the amount of weight above a person’s ideal body weight based on their height and body composition.

Over time, weight loss may continue, but at a slower pace. It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that weight loss is a gradual process. The rate and amount of weight loss can vary between individuals, and factors such as adherence to dietary guidelines, regular exercise, and engagement in behavioral changes can impact outcomes.

Additionally, it’s important to focus on overall health improvements rather than solely on weight loss. Gastric band surgery can lead to improvements in obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Remember, successful weight loss with Lap-Band surgery requires commitment to lifestyle changes, regular follow-up visits for band adjustments, and ongoing support from healthcare professionals and support groups.