What should I look for in a qualified gastric band surgeon?
Gastric Band Surgery is a big decision, a big step to make. Some would say it is the last resort in weight loss and health-saving action. It is a form of surgery used for obesity when all other methods have failed.
The main action of having a gastric band fitted is to reduce stomach size and induce a feeling of fullness when smaller amounts of food have been eaten. A band is fitted round the top part of the stomach, decreasing the need for large meals, as the stomach will fill up on less food.
Although it is a simple procedure and can even be undone if necessary, there is a six-week recovery time, in which liquids and blended foods are all that the patient is allowed. Weight loss is usually significant and can lead to a major improvement in health conditions. It is important that you have a surgeon who can explain the risks, the benefits, and the potential effects. A good Gastric Band Surgeon will talk you through everything.
The Procedure.
The fitting of a gastric band takes approximately one hour, normally carried out under general anaesthetic in an outpatient clinic. It is a fasting procedure with no food allowed the night before, and has a recovery period without normal activities of several days, as well as the six week recovery where no solid food is taken.
The procedure is a keyhole surgery performed by laparoscopy to fit the band, and an inflation procedure done from outside the abdomen. The procedure is reversible if necessary. A good surgeon will talk you through the procedure and answer any questions well in advance.
Risks and Factors.
It is recommended that all other options are exhausted before surgery is considered, for example, weight loss schemes, medications, exercise regimes and healthy diet. Usually the weight problem has to be severe or be causing a complication or risk in relation to other health problems. A good qualified surgeon will make sure that you understand your options and suitability in full, they will not proceed if they feel that you are not a good candidate.
Sufferers of some conditions, such as alcoholism and internal problems, are not advised to have gastric band surgery due to the risk to them. Make sure that your doctor clears you for surgery even if you are having the procedure done privately.
Hopefully you are coming to a conclusion on whether gastric surgery is right for you, but, considering the need for recovery and adjustment, have you thought about getting your gastric band abroad in order to allow you a short break to recover and get used to a new lifestyle?
Getting a gastric band abroad.
It isn’t as extreme as it sounds, prices are competitive and you would be in good hands with a reputable surgeon, trained in the UK, and with a clinic that has English-speaking UK helpline, email and address. Having your gastric band done abroad will allow you recovery time without friends, family and commitments hampering your recovery or disturbing you as you get used to your post-surgery diet. You can relax and see the sights of the city before and after your operation.
