Gastric band surgery works for at least two-thirds of the people who try it.

It's restrictive surgery, and basically works like this. Two medical devices are implanted: a silicone band (the band is placed around the upper stomach) and an injection port (the port is attached to the abdominal wall). Then, under the skin, a saline solution can be added to the band via the port which makes you feel full with less food.

There are lots of gastric band clinics out there, compare their patient support programs and guidance on nutrition and fitness to help you decide on which one is right for you.

Then there’s vertical banded gastroplasty. Surgical staples are used to divide the stomach into two parts. The upper part is much smaller, and limits space for food. Food empties from the upper pouch into the lower pouch through a small opening. A band is put around this opening so it doesn’t stretch.

The band is intended to remain in place permanently, with this gastric band surgery, but it can be removed if necessary.

Keep in mind the band is intended for severely obese people who are at least 100 pounds overweight or who are at least twice their ideal body weight.

In contrast to non-surgical weight loss options, at least two-thirds of patients who undergo bariatric surgery; both gastric bypass and gastric banding, are able to keep off at least 50% of their excess weight for 10 years or longer.

Remember, deciding on surgery is a serious decision and should be considered only after you have exhausted all other methods to lose weight, such as a supervised diet and exercise program.

Only then, if you and your doctor agree that you’re weight is more of a danger to your health than surgery, do you go for it.

Smile…Gigi

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