Weight Loss Surgery

Gastric Banding

What is gastric banding (laparoscopic gastric banding)?

The gastric banding procedure is an effective treatment for weight loss involving the placement of an adjustable silicone band (the gastric band) around the upper part of your stomach. It works by making you feel full sooner so that you eat less.

View an interactive video of the Gasric Band procedure…

The gastric band is placed around the top portion of the stomach, via laparoscopic surgery (key-hole) surgery. This form of weight loss surgery involves the band being inserted through a small incision (less than 1/2 inch) which is made near the belly button.

Weight Loss Surgery at Vale Healthcare. Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan The gastric band operation is performed under general anaesthetic, and usually takes between 1-2 hours. You will be required to stay overnight in hospital for 1 night following the procedure.

Am I suitable for a gastric band?

If you have a BMI over 35 then a gastric band may be a suitable method of weight loss surgery.

Before any surgery is proposed you will undergo a detailed assessment conducted by a weight loss (bariatric) surgeon, in conjunction with our multi-disciplinary weight loss team. This includes a dietician, a dedicated weight-loss surgery nurse, and a weight-loss physician.

How long does a gastric band last for?

A gastric band is designed to remain permanently within your stomach. It is made
entirely of biocompatible materials, so the band can stay in the patient’s body without causing harm.

The gastric band can be removed, and is also designed in a way that can be adjusted to change the size of the stomach pouch.

How does the gastric band work after I’ve had the procedure?

Once you have undergone surgery to have your gastric band fitted, you will have a number of band adjustments over a period of time. The the first band adjustment will usually take place about 6-8 weeks after your initial surgery, once your body has got used to the gastric band in place. The rest of your band adjustments will primarily take place in the first two years following surgery, and your optimal weight loss will take place during this time.

Once it is fitted, the gastric band is adjusted externally (outside of the body) at any time by your consultant surgeon (this takes place at an outpatient appointment, and would usually take only a short period of time). This means that the band can be made either tighter or looser, which will affect the amount of food that you will intake.

The gastric band is tightened by adding a saline solution in to the band, and loosened by removing some of the saline solution from the band. In general, you will start with the band relatively loose and it will be tightened over time.

Where will my treatment take place?

Your initial weight loss consultation will take place at the Vale Hospital, near Cardiff, South Wales. The Vale Hospital is South Wales' newest, state-of-the-art private hospital.

Typically, you will be advised to take approximately 2 weeks off work, but this will depend on the type of job you have, and will be discussed with your surgeon prior to any treatment.