Gastric band surgery is more commonly known as lap band surgery. It is a type of baratric surgery that helps with weight loss. Similar to gastric bypass surgery, it works by reducing the size of the stomach, which in turn will help the person feel fuller on less food. By consuming less food, a person naturally loses weight.
Types of Gastric Band Surgery
There are two main types of gastric band surgery. The most common is laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Vertical banded gastroplasy is less common as it has a higher complication rate. Few bariatric surgeons will perform vertical banded gastroplasy in the U.S.
What does Gastric Banding Surgery Involve?
A bariatric surgeon will place an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach. The stomach forms a pouch with an inch wide outlet. Food flows slowly from the upper pouch into the lower part of the stomach and it normally from there. This procedure is performed with laparoscopic tools.
The band can be tighten or loosened through a small port device placed just under the skin. Saline is injected or extracted, making the band tighter or looser as needed. This is very useful in reducing side effects.
Benefits of Gastric Banding
As compared to other weight loss surgeries, gastric banding is considered the safest and least invasive. It is fully reversible and does not require cutting of the stomach or stomach stapling. Vitamin deficiencies are rare, unlike gastric bypass. The hospital stay is quicker and so is recovery time.
Weight loss is a little slower than gastric bypass, but over time, usually within five years, the results are similar. Most patients lose an average of 1 to 2 pounds a week.
Healthy weight loss has its own benefits. The risk of heart disease and diabetes are reduced. Losing weight can also, help control high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Band Surgery Risks
Even though gastric banding is a safer surgery compared to other weight loss surgeries, it does still carry certain risks. Common complications can include nausea and vomiting, these can usually be managed by adjusting the band. Surgical complications including problems with device adjustment, minor bleeding and infection are rare, occurring less than 10% of the time. Deaths associated with the surgeries are 1 in 2000.
Who Qualifies for Gastric Banding?
Like other weight loss surgeries, gastric banding is not a good choice for everyone looking for weight loss solutions. To qualify for the surgery, the individual must be considered as morbidly obese, or having a BMI of 40% or more, have a history of obesity, and are between the ages of 18 and 65. There are bariatric surgeons who will work with patients who are younger or older than the recommended age range. Other qualifications may apply, as well.
Weight Loss Surgery Cost
Gastric banding surgeries range in price from $17,000 to $30,000. Cost can vary depending on location, type of band and method used. Many bariatric surgeons and bariatric weight loss centers do offer payment plans, they can also help arrange for insurance coverage.
