Laparoscopic Gastric Banding Surgery: How It Works & What To Expect

By Author: ardenjrsurgery
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If you’ve been struggling with obesity and haven’t found success through diet and exercise alone, Laparoscopic Gastric Banding might be the right solution. This minimally invasive weight loss surgery in Singapore is offered by leading practices such as ARDEN JR SURGERY and has helped many individuals take control of their health. It works by limiting the amount of food your stomach can hold, making you feel full with smaller portions.
Whether you’re exploring surgical options for the first time or comparing procedures, understanding how laparoscopic gastric banding works and what to expect before and after can help you make an informed decision.
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Understanding Laparoscopic Gastric Banding
What is Laparoscopic Gastric Banding?
Laparoscopic Gastric Banding is a type of gastric banding surgery that uses a silicone band placed around the upper portion of your stomach. This creates a small pouch that holds less food and helps you feel full more quickly. The procedure is performed using laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, which involves small incisions and minimal ...
... recovery time.
Unlike other procedures such as laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, this surgery is both adjustable and reversible. The band is connected to a port under your skin, allowing the surgeon to adjust the band’s tightness by injecting or removing saline solution.
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How the Procedure Works
Step-by-Step Overview
The surgery typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes and is performed under general anaesthesia. Here's what happens:
1. Small incisions are made in the abdomen.
2. A laparoscope (a tiny camera) and surgical tools are inserted.
3. The silicone band is placed around the upper stomach.
4. The band is connected to an access port placed under the skin.
5. Adjustments can be made post-surgery to optimize weight loss.
Because the procedure is minimally invasive, most patients recover faster and experience less post-operative discomfort.
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What to Expect Before & After Surgery
Before Surgery
Your journey begins with a comprehensive assessment, including a medical evaluation, blood work, and imaging tests. At ARDEN JR SURGERY, you’ll also receive personalised dietary and lifestyle guidance to help prepare your body for surgery and improve outcomes.
You may be required to follow a pre-operative diet to reduce liver size and minimize risks during surgery.
After Surgery
Post-surgery, you will go through several dietary stages:
• Liquid diet for the first few days
• Pureed foods for a couple of weeks
• Soft foods, followed by a gradual return to regular meals
You’ll also begin gentle physical activity and attend follow-up appointments for band adjustments and health monitoring.
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Benefits of Gastric Banding Surgery
• Minimally invasive with faster recovery times
• Adjustable and reversible, unlike other procedures
• No removal of stomach tissue
• Effective long-term weight loss
• Improves health conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension
When performed by experienced specialists like those at ARDEN JR SURGERY, the surgery is safe and supported by post-operative care for optimal success.
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Long-Term Success with Laparoscopic Gastric Banding
The real key to success after Laparoscopic Gastric Banding lies in long-term lifestyle changes. While the band helps you eat less, your long-term results depend on developing healthier eating habits, staying physically active, and maintaining regular follow-ups with your medical team.
At ARDEN JR SURGERY, patients are provided with continued care including:
• Nutritional counselling
• Support groups or coaching
• Band adjustments (fills)
• Physical activity recommendations
Patients who remain committed to these changes often experience sustained weight loss, improved confidence, and better control of weight-related health conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Laparoscopic Gastric Banding
1. Is Laparoscopic Gastric Banding painful?
Mild discomfort is expected around incision sites, but most patients report only minor pain that resolves within a few days.
2. How much weight will I lose?
Most patients lose 40–60% of their excess weight within 1–2 years, depending on adherence to lifestyle changes and follow-up care.
3. Is the gastric band permanent?
No, it’s both adjustable and removable. Some patients may choose to keep it in long-term, while others may opt for removal or a different procedure later.
4. How often are band adjustments needed?
In the first year, adjustments may be needed every 4–6 weeks. These are quick outpatient procedures to optimize the band’s tightness.
5. Can I eat normally after surgery?
Eventually, yes. But you’ll need to follow a strict post-op diet initially. Long-term success requires smaller portions, slow eating, and healthier food choices.
6. What are the risks?
Risks include infection, nausea, acid reflux, and band slippage. These are rare and manageable with regular monitoring and proper care.
7. How soon can I return to work?
Most patients return to light work within a week, depending on the nature of their job.
8. Will my insurance cover this surgery?
It varies. Speak with your insurance provider and the administrative team at ARDEN JR SURGERY for guidance on financial options.
9. Is this surgery right for me?
It’s ideal for individuals with a BMI over 35, or over 30 with obesity-related health issues. A consultation will determine your eligibility.
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Final Thoughts on Laparoscopic Gastric Banding
Laparoscopic Gastric Banding is a safe and effective tool for long-term weight loss. When paired with professional guidance and a commitment to lifestyle changes, it can offer lasting health benefits and greatly improve your quality of life. For those seeking trusted and comprehensive weight loss surgery in Singapore, ARDEN JR SURGERY offers expert care from consultation to recovery.
If you're ready to take the next step in your weight loss journey, consider whether Laparoscopic Gastric Banding could be the right choice for you.