Gastric BandGastric Band News and Information

Both the gastric band and the gastric bypass are tried and tested procedures for the treatment of excessive weight gain.

They are safe and effective and have proven to be lifesavers for many patients, however, as with any form of surgery, the procedures are not right for everyone.

This is why obesity surgery experts Gastric Band Info are helping clarify when to consider going under the knife, to avoid obesity-related illnesses such as heart disease, cancer or strokes.

Gastric bands operations are often a good solution for people with a body mass index (BMI) of between 35 and 45.

The procedure takes a shorter amount of time to complete than a gastric bypass, which means less risk for the patient, a shorter stay in hospital and a quicker recovery.

Lapbands are also reversible and totally adjustable to fit your individual requirements, which adds to their popularity.

However, gastric bypass patients’ long-term morbidity rates fall by around 40 per cent, making it one of the most important procedures on the market. Gastric bypasses are best for morbidly obese or super obese patients, with a BMI of around 45 or higher.

Of course, the best approach to losing excess bodyweight is non-surgical – to eat sensibly and increase exercise – which should always be your first weight loss option.

However, while millions of overweight people try diet, exercise and even medication, they do not always work and medical studies show that if you are obese, you are not likely to succeed in long-term weight loss through diet and behaviour changes alone.

That’s when a gastric band or bypass could be the choice for you.