Apart from making you aesthetically appealing, losing and maintaining a healthy weight can also lessen many health risks and make improve overall health conditions. This can be a daunting process; however, there are many weight loss treatment options to support you in this journey, one of them being Gastric Band Surgery.

The gastric band is made of silicon (plastic) and is designed to remain in place around the stomach indefinitely. But sometimes, certain patients may have to undergo a Gastric Band Removal procedure. It could be that the patient due to a variety of reasons ranging from insufficient weight loss to complications.

Reasons for Gastric Band Removal

The following are some physical signs that could indicate a problem with the band after Gastric Band  surgery:

• Insufficient weight loss, Band erosion, Band infection
• Symptoms of band intolerance (includes nausea, vomiting, or a persistent sense of discomfort or pain)
• Slippage in the band
• Having difficulty swallowing
• Dysmotility and/or dilatation of the esophagus
• GERD is an abbreviation for gastroesophageal reflux disease.
• Pouch dilation (enlargement of the stomach pouch above the band)
• Port infection
• Flipped or migrating port

Gastric Band removal may also become necessary if you are experiencing any negative side effects. For example, there is a small chance that the band will slip down the stomach. Because increasing the size of the stomach would limit your positive results, the gastric band must be removed after changing positions.

What is the procedure for gastric band removal surgery?

Regardless of how your initial gastric band surgery was performed, your removal procedure will most likely be performed laparoscopically.

Depending on existing medical conditions, any repair of the stomach injured by the band, or if you choose to convert to another weight loss surgical procedure, you may be able to leave the hospital next day of your procedure.

The removal procedure is likely to have a similar risk of complications as the initial procedure, i.e. a low risk.

How long will it take for you to recover and resume your normal activities?

Recovery can take anywhere from a week to two weeks. It usually takes a few days, but if the band is complicated, it may take a little longer. We recommend that you resume lifting and running after six weeks, as we advise patients undergoing any abdominal surgery in general.

When and how will you be able to eat after having my gastric band removed?

Unless the band is complicated by erosion, you can eat right away. Patients will notice a difference and return to how they felt before the band was inserted. Normal symptoms such as hunger return after the medication is removed.

Will you gain weight after gastric Band Removal surgery?

If you had a gastric band and lost 70kgs, but the band causes problems and needs to be removed, you will regain the weight you lost if you return to your old habits. It’s critical to stick to your healthy eating plan and stay active, or you’ll inevitably gain weight.

Is it possible to refit a gastric band or use a different type of bariatric method after having it removed?

Repeat band surgery is possible, but it is not recommended if the band has failed. F needed to avoid gaining weight after band removal then , we prefer a gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy over a repeat gastric band.

If you need revisional surgery, we can remove the gastric band and then insert the second band in one operation. Alternatively, the gastric band can be removed in two stages, with the new band inserted four months later.

Benefits of Gastric Band Removal

While the decision to remove a gastric band is typically made on a case-by-case basis in consultation with a healthcare professional, there can be potential benefits associated with gastric band removal. 

HERE ARE A FEW:

Resolution of complications: Gastric bands can sometimes lead to complications such as band erosion, band slippage, or band intolerance. These issues may cause discomfort, pain, difficulty swallowing, or other gastrointestinal symptoms. Removing the gastric band can help alleviate these complications and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Restoration of normal eating habits: Gastric bands restrict the size of the stomach, limiting the amount of food that can be consumed. While this restriction can aid weight loss, some individuals may find it challenging to adhere to the dietary guidelines or may experience discomfort while eating. Gastric band removal allows individuals to return to normal eating habits, including consuming larger meals if desired.

Improved digestion and nutrient absorption: The presence of a gastric band can impact the normal digestion and absorption of nutrients in some individuals. Removing the band can restore the natural digestive process, allowing for improved nutrient absorption and potentially reducing the risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Weight management alternatives: After gastric band removal, individuals who still desire weight loss or weight management can explore alternative options. These may include lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, increased physical activity, or other weight loss surgeries such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. Discussing these options with a healthcare professional can help determine the most suitable approach.

Reduced long-term complications: Long-term complications associated with gastric banding, such as device malfunction, infection, or erosion, can be minimized or eliminated by removing the band. This can potentially reduce the risk of future complications and the need for further surgical interventions.

Considering Gastric Band Removal Surgery? Consult our expert Dr. Girish Juneja

Gastric band removal surgery is a major decision and should not be taken lightly. Consulting with our experts at our weight loss surgery clinic in Dubai can help ensure that you are making the right decision for your health and well-being. Dr. Girish Juneja is highly experienced in weight loss and gastric band removal surgeries, providing personalized care to his patients so they can enjoy a successful outcome from their procedure.

If you’re considering this type of procedure, we strongly recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Girish to discuss it further and explore if this could be the best option for you.