What is Gastric Banding?

Gastric banding is a restrictive procedure that helps patients lose weight by limiting how much they can eat, reducing appetite and slowing digestion. At NHSA we use the LAP-BAND® adjustable banding system.

During surgery, the surgeon implants two medical devices: an inflatable silicone band placed around the upper part of the stomach and an injection port placed into the abdominal wall.  The band divides the stomach into two sections and is connected to the port with thin, flexible tubing. The smaller upper stomach section limits the amount of food that can be eaten, making you feel fuller quicker.

Your physician can adjust the size of the band at any time by injecting saline into the port making the band tighter. The tighter the band, the fuller you will feel throughout the day. With gastric banding, there is no change to normal digestion and nutrient absorption. Although not an easy procedure, the band can be removed.

Gastric Banding Procedure