Gastric Banding
The idea behind gastric banding is to help you feel full more quickly, so you eat less and take longer to feel hungry again. It also slows your digestion for more successful weight loss.
The band itself is an inflatable silicone device which is inserted and fitted through laparoscopic surgery (keyhole surgery). It’s probably the least invasive gastrointestinal surgery there is.
What Does Fitting a Gastric Band Involve?
All incisions are very minimal as it is performed through laparoscopic technology. The procedure length is about 1.5 hours, and is performed on an outpatient basis. Your band will need to be adjusted, initially every month and decreasing to every couple months until a safe weight is achieved.
The band is adjusted by adding or removing saline solution to ensure adequate, safe weight loss. It’s an inpatient procedure, but you will only require a short stay in our hospital.
Am I Suitable for Gastric Banding?
Secondly, except in certain circumstances, we only perform gastric band operations for people who have already tried to achieve weight loss through regular exercise and healthy eating, and who have ultimately been unsuccessful.
To be a good candidate for gastric banding:
- You need to be at least 100lbs over your ideal weight
- You need a BMI greater than 35
- Or a BMI greater than 40 with co-morbidity such as high blood pressure, or type II diabetes
- You must have been overweight for over 5 years
- You must not be suffering from any other disease that would cause you to be overweight.
How Effective is a Gastric Band?
We always recommend that once you are recovered, as well as eating healthily to ensure you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals you need, that you incorporate exercise into your daily or weekly routines.
If you are prepared to make substantial changes in your eating habits and lifestyle, and want to improve the overall quality of your life, call Clinic 360 at 416-360-7360 to book your complimentary consultation.