Benefits of Gastric Banding - Obesity Surgery Guide


Gastric banding can be a good option for those people who do not wish to undergo the more complex gastric bypass surgery.  It may also be the case that they have a range of health problems which rule out gastric bypass.

Gastric bypass is a highly successful type of surgery but is not suitable for everyone.  In those cases there are a range of advantages to undergoing gastric banding:

 

Comparison between gastric banding and gastric bypass

 

Gastric band

 

 

Gastric bypass

Quicker procedure. It takes on average, around 45 minutes.  An easier procedure.    

 

This can last for one to two hours. A more complex procedure.

Adjustable.  The band can be adjusted depending on weight loss and calorie intake.  It can be tailored to your requirements. 

 

Non-adjustable.  

Reversible.  This procedure can be undone.

 

Non-reversible

Less time spent as an
in-patient.  This procedure usually means just a one night stay in a clinic or hospital. 

 

This is a more invasive procedure which means a stay of three nights in a clinic or
hospital.

Quicker recovery time.  You are looking, on average, at 10 to 14 days.

 

Recovery time can be up to 6 weeks.

 

No problems of food absorption which means no vitamin/mineral deficiencies.

It is recommended but is not mandatory. 

Absorption of food is affected.  Fewer calories are ingested from food but so are less vitamins and minerals. 

This means a daily vitamin/mineral supplement for
the rest of your life. 

No or little risk of metabolic complications

 

Higher risk of metabolic complications.  Regular tests are required to prevent protein
deficiency, anaemia etc.
   

 

Less than 5% risk of complications

 

 

There is a 5 to 10% risk of complications (bleeding, leaking from staples etc).

Other benefits include improving or clearing up any obesity related health problems such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoarthritis.

As well as the weight loss you will start to look and feel much better.  You will have greater amounts of energy, will be able to take part in activities which were previously denied to you and feel part of society again.

Your confidence and self-esteem will improve and life will get much better from now on.

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