The Cost of Gastric Band Surgery

About the Gastric Band

The Gastric Band (sometimes called the lapband after the registered name of the device, made by the company Allergan), is a laparoscopic procedure (sometimes called pinhole surgery) used to treat and promote weight loss. The ideal candidate for this procedure is someone diagnosed as being clinically or morbidly obese. The suitability criterion goes on Body Mass Index (BMI). Although this figure varies slightly from one private clinic to another, generally anyone with a BMI of above 32 can be considered for the procedure. This value is much higher for NHS considerations, with patients generally being morbidly obese.

The treatment involves the fitting of a silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, to create a smaller pouch capable of holding a small amount of food, and with a small adjustable exit or stoma. The stomach is left completely intact with no portions removed and no stapling carried out, as the band alone acts as a constrictor. It is reversible and adjustable following fitting, affording a flexible approach to the post-operative care and regime. The LAP band is adjusted by inflating or deflating a balloon on its inner surface using a saline solution.

The Gastric Band procedure

The procedure is usually carried out under a general anaesthetic, lasting up to one hour. A tiny incision is made in the abdomen, and a tube containing a tiny camera and light, called a laparoscope, is passed through to the stomach. The laparoscope will allow the surgeon to see what he or she is doing, without the need for large incisions. Other tiny incisions are made for specialist keyhole instruments and the lapband itself to pass through. The lapband is fitted around the uppermost part of the stomach but at this point, the surgeon does not usually inflate it with saline.

The patient is usually expected to remain in the hospital or clinic for an overnight stay, but the operation is simple enough to usually allow the patient to go home shortly afterwards. Surgeons nearly always adjust the lapband's ability to constrict within a few weeks of the surgery after everything has settled down, and the lapband may need several adjustments over time. This is a very simple procedure involving x-rays, and does not require additional surgery.

The Achievable Results after the Procedure

The first two weeks after fitting requires a very careful diet whilst the 'new' stomach and patient adjusts. Starting with liquidised foods, the patient should be able to move onto purees within the first two weeks, then on to carefully managed portion sizes of solid foods. The stomach will not be able to hold a lot of food, and the stoma leading out of the upper portion will prevent food from leaving too quickly, keeping the patient feeling fuller for longer.

Combining this new eating regime with a managed exercise regime should promote a healthy weight loss. This should be carefully monitored by medical personnel, with any lapband adjustments carried out as necessary. On average, patients lose between half and two thirds of their excess weight in the two years following the lapband fitting.

Costs for the procedure

Prices do vary, with big differences between clinics situated in the same city. The additional costs of initial consultations, ongoing follow-up checks and adjustments may be added extras or included in the cost. Generally, the gastric band operation in the UK can average from £4,500 to £6,500. It is worth checking to see what is included with the quoted price. Remember to always choose accredited and experienced surgeons.