What Is Gastric Band Surgery?
The Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band, commonly called the Lap-Band, is one of the least invasive types of bariatric surgery. During this procedure, a soft, silicone band containing an inflatable balloon is placed around the upper portion of the stomach. This creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach, which limits the amount of food a patient can eat at one time.
Unlike gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery, the stomach is not permanently divided or removed. Instead, the band simply squeezes the upper part of the stomach to slow down digestion and encourage early fullness. This makes the gastric band a purely restrictive weight-loss procedure, designed to help patients eat smaller portions and feel satisfied sooner.
How Does the Gastric Band Work?
The band is connected by a thin tube to a small access port, which is placed under the skin of the abdominal wall. Through this port, a surgeon can add or remove saline solution to inflate or deflate the balloon inside the band.
- Tightening the band reduces the stomach opening even further, making it harder to overeat.
- Loosening the band allows food to pass through more easily.
This adjustability makes the gastric band unique — it allows for gradual, customized weight loss over time. Patients can return to the clinic for band adjustments to ensure steady, safe progress toward their weight goals.
Benefits of Gastric Band Surgery
The gastric band may be a good choice for patients seeking a less invasive, reversible bariatric procedure. Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive: Performed laparoscopically with small incisions and quicker recovery.
- Adjustable and reversible: The band can be tightened, loosened, or even removed.
- No stomach removal or intestinal rerouting: Lower risk of certain complications.
- Gradual weight loss: Allows patients to adjust to smaller meals and healthier habits over time.
While average weight loss is typically lower compared to gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy (about 40–50% of excess body weight), many patients succeed with the band when paired with strong lifestyle changes.
Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Band Surgery?
Gastric band surgery is best suited for:
- Patients with a BMI of 35–40 who have obesity-related health conditions.
- Those seeking a less permanent surgical option.
- Patients who want the ability to adjust or reverse their procedure.
Because success depends heavily on consistent follow-up and dietary changes, gastric banding is often recommended for highly motivated patients who are ready for long-term lifestyle adjustments.
Risks and Considerations
While the gastric band is safe and minimally invasive, there are some unique risks, including:
- Band slippage or erosion over time.
- Port or tubing complications.
- Slower weight loss compared to other bariatric surgeries.
To minimize these risks, patients should commit to regular follow-up visits with their bariatric team at BASS Bariatric Surgery Center.
FAQs About Gastric Band Surgery
How much weight can I expect to lose?
On average, patients lose 40–50% of their excess body weight over several years.
Is the gastric band permanent?
No. The band can be removed if needed, or adjusted for long-term results.
How long is recovery?
Most patients go home the same day or within 24 hours, and can return to normal activities in 1–2 weeks.
What makes the gastric band different from other surgeries?
Unlike gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, no part of the stomach or intestines is permanently removed or rerouted. The procedure is fully reversible.
Gastric Band Surgery in Walnut Creek & Brentwood
At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, our expert surgeons — Dr. Brian Chin and Dr. Jason Moy — have performed thousands of bariatric procedures, including gastric banding. We offer personalized care, ongoing support, and follow-up adjustments to help patients across Walnut Creek, Brentwood, and the East Bay Area succeed on their weight-loss journey.
Call us at (925) 940-1052 or request a consultation today to learn whether gastric band surgery is the right choice for you.
