What is gastric band surgery?
Gastric banding, also known as lap banding, is a procedure which aims to make you feel full after eating a small portion of food. It works by restricting the capacity of your stomach, so that you eat less and, over time, lose weight.
Why do people choose to have gastric band surgery?
Obesity can cause a multitude of health problems. Gastric banding is generally carried out to help weight loss and to reduce the risks to health related to obesity.
Gastric banding may be appropriate for you if:
- You are morbidly obese (have a BMI of over 40)
- You have a BMI of between 30 - 40 and suffer from a condition that poses a serious health risk (including diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure) and
- You have tried to lose weight in the conventional way, through diet and exercise, but have failed to lose a significant amount of weight.
Benefits of gastric banding
Following weight loss there is a reduction in the health risks associated with being obese.
The motivations for gastric band surgery vary from person to person, however patients commonly report:
- Significant weight loss
- A long term change in attitude towards healthy eating
- Improved health and mobility
- Improved mental wellbeing
- Boost to self esteem and self confidence.
How does the gastric banding work?
During the procedure, your surgeon will place an adjustable band around your stomach to create two compartments, keeping a narrow opening between the top and bottom so that food can pass through it slowly. There is a limited space left for food so it should quickl creates the sensation of fullness. Once the food passes through the opening into the lower part of the stomach, it then makes its way through the rest of the digestive system.
After the procedure, your band may be adjusted depending on how much weight you are losing, and how quickly you are losing it. Fluid is usually injected into the band to tighten it, and this is known as a band fill.
Is gastric band surgery available on the NHS?
To qualify for gastric banding on the NHS you need to meet certain criteria, with each applicant judged on a case-by-case basis. NHS funding for this procedure is limited and varies by area. For this reason, many people find that private gastric banding is the best option.
Gastric band surgery aftercare
You may need to stay in hospital overnight so we can look after you and make sure we are happy with everything before you go home; but some gastric banding operations are now carried out as a day case, with no overnight stay in hospital.
Having gastric banding at a Spire hospital means you will be treated by an experienced bariatric (obesity) surgeon who will discuss your options and the best course of treatment for you before going ahead with surgery. Our team of dieticians and specialist nurses will look after you throughout your stay and provide support and advice after surgery.
Gastric banding from Spire Healthcare
With Spire Healthcare you will see an experienced consultant of your choice at a time that suits you. You will be treated in a premium private hospital, not a clinic, and you can be assured of our commitment to healthcare standards and infection control excellence. What’s more, you’ll be able to recuperate in your own private room with friends and family able to visit when you wish.