What are the benefits of gastric band?

A major benefit of the gastric band are the results the patient sees with a procedure that is simpler than many weight loss alternatives. Gastric band surgery is considered low risk, meaning complications during and after the procedure are rare.

The gastric band will result in a weight loss of about 50% of the patient’s excess weight. Most of this weight loss will occur in the first year, but will likely continue at a steady pace for two years. This is a dramatic amount of weight loss from a procedure that does not permanently change the size or shape of the stomach.

After the initial two years, weight loss will slow and may stop, this is because the body adjusts to the gastric band. The specialist team will work with patients on a healthy diet and exercise plan that will help them maintain their weight loss.

Keyhole surgery, instead of more invasive procedures, means that gastric band patients will not have an extensive recovery time. They will stay in the hospital for an average of just one night and will be able to drive just ten days after surgery.

Another benefit of the gastric band is that it is a reversible procedure. It does not permanently change the shape or size of the patient’s stomach. The band can be deflated or removed at any time and the procedure will no longer have any effect on the patient.

Gastric band surgery does not require that patients follow a special diet or take a nutritional supplement. Patients will be able to eat whatever they like while using the gastric band.

The dramatic weight loss associated with the gastric band will help the patient’s health in weight related conditions. Some of these conditions are infertility, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. The gastric band will also help reduce the risk of developing these disorders in the future.

The gastric band is a long term solution for patients who are overweight or obese. The band can be left in place throughout the lifetime of the patient. Surgeons can adjust the band according to weight loss needs or deflate the band completely. Long term use of the band will not pose any health risks for patients.

Another benefit of the gastric band is the self-esteem patients gain once they start dropping their excess weight. Patients generally feel more confident and happier, gaining a much more positive outlook on life.