Adjustable Gastric Banding (Laparoscopic Method)

Overview

This surgery limits how much your stomach can hold. That helps you eat less and lose weight when diet and exercise don't work. It can help you avoid serious health problems linked to obesity. Your band can be adjusted or even removed without any lasting changes to your stomach.

Preparation

To begin, you're put to sleep. The surgeon makes some small openings in your abdomen. One is for a special camera we call a "laparoscope." The others are for tiny instruments.

Placing the gastric band

The surgeon carefully wraps the gastric band around the upper part of your stomach. It's tightened to form a small pouch. This pouch will be able to hold only a small amount of food before you feel full.

Adjustment port

A tube from the band leads to a port secured just under your skin. Saline can be injected through this port to make your band tighter. Saline can be taken out to loosen the band. These adjustments control the speed that food moves through your stomach. Your band will be adjusted as needed during office visits.

End of Procedure

Finally, the openings in your skin are closed and bandaged. After the surgery, you're watched in a recovery room as you wake up. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully for a safe recovery.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.