Gastric Banding Surgery FAQ

It’s important to understand the process of Gastric banding before committing to the surgery and the lifestyle change.

What does Gastric Banding entail?

A gastric band is an adjustable band that is placed on top of the stomach that is designed to make the patient feel full from a small amount of food, which makes it easier to lose weight.

Is Gastric Banding surgery reversible?

The band may be removed laparoscopically if needed.

Is Gastric Banding safe?

Laparoscopic gastric banding surgery is considered the safest of all weight loss surgery procedures.

Will I qualify for gastric banding surgery?

According to Sinai Hospital, gastric banding may be good for you if you are at least 18 years old, have a BMI over 40 or at least 35 with an obesity-related condition, have made several attempts to lose weight, do not smoke or drink in excess and do not have a disease that may have caused obesity.

Who is Gastric banding Surgery not recommended for?

Those with an inflammatory disease, Crohn’s Disease, ulcers, severe heart or lung disease, portal hypertension, cirrhosis, are pregnant, who drink, smoke or use drugs in excess, who are under 18 years old or who have an autoimmune disease or family history of it are not good candidates for gastric banding.

What are some risks and complications associated with this surgery?

Nausea, vomiting, problems with the adjustment device, minor bleeding or wound infections are all risks of gastric banding, Web MD reports.

Will my insurance cover my Gastric banding surgery?

Typically insurance will cover all or a portion of surgery if the patient is severely overweight or has an obesity-related medical condition that can be improved with bariatric surgery.

What tests are done before Gastric Banding?

According to the National Institutes of Health, blood tests, a gallbladder ultrasound, complete blood count, sleep study, EKG, stress test and other tests may be required before gastric banding surgery.

How long will I be in the hospital following surgery?

According to North Shore University Health, patients will be in the hospital for up to 24 hours following surgery.

How much weight can I plan to lose?

About one-third to one-half of a patient’s excess weight can be expected in terms of weight loss, according to National Institutes of Health.

What kind of follow-up can I expect with Gastric Banding surgery?

Patients follow up a few days after leaving the hospital then every 4-6 weeks for a year after surgery.

How is my band adjusted? Is it painful?

Northshore University Health reports that adjustments happen in the x-ray department. This is because the access port is clearly seen there. Other times, they may need to occur in the office or outpatient. Local anesthesia may or may not be required. A fine need will pass through the skin to the port and the process generally takes a few minutes.

What will my diet be after Gastric Banding?

Patients will be on liquids or pureed foods for up to three weeks following surgery. They will then slowly add soft foods to the diet and then solid foods. The process generally takes about six weeks.

What vitamins will I need to take following surgery?

The Cleveland Clinic suggests a multi-vitamin once daily, 500 mcg of Vitamin B12, 27-28 mg of Iron, 500 mg of Vitamin C and 1,200-1,500 mg of Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D. Some patients also take 10-20 mg of Zinc and a stool softener as needed.

Can I take my regular medicine after surgery?

A doctor can review your medications or determine if they are safe to take.

References:

• http://www.northshore.org/bariatric-surgery-services/faqs/faqs-laparoscopic…
• http://www.webmd.com/diet/weight-loss-surgery/gastric-banding-surgery-for-weight-loss
• http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007388.htm
• https://weightloss.clevelandclinic.org/images/file/Required%20Vitamin%20and%20Minerals%20After%20Surgery.pdf