A gastric band surgery is a procedure that uses adjustable band to reduce the capacity of the stomach so that only small meals can be eaten. It is performed by laparoscopic method that involves quick recovery, minimal scarring and reduced levels of operative risk.
Who can choose Gastric Band Surgery?
Bariatric surgeons recommend gastric band surgery to only three types of individuals:
1. Those who have tried other methods of weight loss programme such as medicines, diet or exercises without success.
2. Those who are overweight with a BMI of over 40.
3. Those with a BMI between 35 and 40 with a medical condition like high BP or diabetes.
Procedure involved in Gastric Band Surgery:
Gastric band surgery is a very simple procedure involving keyhole surgical method. An adjustable band in a circular balloon which is similar to a small inner tube is placed around the upper part of the stomach. Through a port placed just under the skin, the band is then inflated creating a small bag above the band. When an individual with gastric band surgery eats food, the small bag gets filled and the food slowly passes to the lower part of the stomach through the narrow opening created by the band. Later food travels normally through rest of the digestive system. A gastric band can be removed later if required, however this will result in gaining back weight.
Cost of Gastric Band Surgery:
Cost of gastric band surgery depends on the level of treatment and the technique used. The gastric band cost slightly varies between a high risk patient and a normal individual. The treatment package may vary anywhere between 7,500 and 8,000. The advantage of this low cost package is that there is no limit on the number of band adjustment procedures and appointments with the team of doctors and nutritionist during the first two years of post-op. However only a reputed bariatric surgeon will offer such package, so always check and compare prices before going in for the surgery.
Later food travels normally through rest of the digestive system. A gastric band can be removed later if required, however this will result in gaining back weight.