During adjustable gastric banding, the surgeon places an inflatable band around the top of the stomach to create a “stoma,” or small pocket for food. The pocket fills quickly, sending a message to the brain that you’re full. The procedure allows patients to (1) feel hungry less often, (2) eat smaller portions, and (3) lose weight over time. Once implanted, Realize and Lap-Bands can be adjusted to allow the patient to consume more or less, depending on caloric needs and weight loss goals.

Am I a Candidate for Gastric Banding?

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have established the following requirements for both Realize and Lap-Band surgeries:

• BMI (body mass index) of greater than 40: This typically means that women are at least 80 pounds overweight, and men are at least 100 pounds overweight. Gastric banding does not have a maximum weight limit.
• BMI of at least 35 with obesity-related health problems: If you’re currently experiencing hypertension, dangerously high cholesterol, heart problems, sleep apnea or diabetes, your physician may recommend adjustable gastric banding at lower weights.
• History of weight loss failure: Those who have undergone physician-supervised diets, exercise programs and behavior modification therapy may still be unable to lose weight. Gastric banding is often a viable option in these cases.
• Age 18 or older: While the NIH recommends that gastric banding candidates be at least 18, obese adolescents may be eligible for the surgery. If a teen’s life is at risk due to obesity-related conditions, a qualified weight loss physician may recommend surgery at an earlier age.

Who is Not a Good Candidate?

Weight loss surgery is a serious decision, and you should weigh surgical options with a bariatric specialist. Adjustable gastric banding may not be recommended in all situations—especially for patients with the following conditions/concerns:

• Severe stomach or intestinal inflammation and/or bleeding due to ulcers or Crohn’s disease
• Cardiac or respiratory disease
• Abnormal gastrointestinal anatomy
• Liver cirrhosis
• Ongoing infection
• Current or anticipated pregnancy
• Lack of desire to alter eating and exercise habits
• Long-term steroid use

The best way to determine whether you’re a candidate for Realize or Lap-Band surgery is to consult with a bariatric specialist. After reviewing medical history and meeting with you during an initial visit, Dr. Wade Barker will decide whether adjustable gastric banding is for you. Having performed over 2500 weight loss surgeries, Dr. Barker is an expert in determining what procedures will help patients meet their weight loss goals and improve their health. Call today (1-888-OneDrBarker) to schedule your personalized consultation today.