What is a gastric band?
The gastric band is made of silicone, and is designed to wrap around the top part of your stomach. Inside the band is a balloon that can be adjusted (tightened or loosened) by adding or removing fluid out through the adjustment port. The adjustment port is placed on the muscle of your belly, and is connected to the band by tubing

How does it work?
A new very small stomach is created above the band. After eating or drinking just a few mouthfuls, you will feel full. The food empties slowly from this pouch, and you will feel hungry less often. This will make it easier for you to lose weight. The speed of weight loss can be controlled by making the balloon tighter or looser. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis by injecting or removing fluid through the adjustment port. .

Who can have a band inserted?
We have strict criteria for band insertion

	BMI 35 and above or 32.5 and above with significant medial problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, bone and joint problems, etc.
	At least six months of serious attempts at weight loss with only temporary success.
	Be motivated to lose weight, and understand the potential benefits of gastric band surgery.

What happens before the operation?
The operation will be discussed with you in detail by your surgeon at the weight management clinic. He will arrange some investigations, such as blood and urine tests, chest x-ray, and heart tests in order to check your general health. Heavier patients, those with a BMI above 45, will be asked to go on a special diet, called a very low calorie diet (VLCD), for two weeks prior to their scheduled surgery. These patients are asked to lose at least 10kg during this time in order to make the surgery easier and safer.

What happens after the operation?
The evening after your operation, you will be allowed sips of water to drink. The next morning, you will be allowed to drink some low sugar fluids. You will notice that you will feel full after just a few mouthfuls because of the band. Before you are discharged, the doctor will provided you with dietary and exercise instructions. Then you will be allowed to return home.

What are the rules about diet after operation?
For the first two weeks, you will only be allowed low sugar fluids while the band is settling down. For the next two weeks, you will be allowed only soft or pureed food. After four weeks, you can start to introduce solid food gradually. However, for the remainder of your life, you should follow these golden rules:

1. Eat three small meals a day only
2. Eat slowly and chew well
3. Stop eating as soon as you feel full
4. Eat a balanced and varied diet
5. Do not eat between meals
6. Drink little or no fluid with your meals
7. Drink plenty of fluids between your meals
8. Drink low calorie fluids only
9. Exercise at least 30 minutes each day