Gastric banding weight loss surgery is the most popular type of weight loss surgery in the United States, Australia and Europe. It has been approved by the FDA and is considered to be one of the safest forms of surgery. Neither the stomach nor the interest time is cut during the procedure.

Even with gastric banding surgery, changes will have to be made to diet and physical activity. But, it will provide immediate remedies to overeating. This type of surgery limits the amount of food that can be eaten by an individual. It also reduces his or her appetite and slows digestion of the foods eaten.

During the laparoscopic surgery, placement of a hollow elastic band around the upper part of the stomach divides the stomach into two pouches. A smaller upper pouch resides above the band and a larger pouch lies below the band. The smaller pouch limits the amount of food a person can he at one time. He will feel fuller much quicker than before his surgery.

The gastric band that has been placed between the two pouches can be adjusted if the patient feels that she is losing weight to quickly. This is done by injecting or removing the saline solution from the band.

After the surgery, the hollow band is connected by a tube to a reservoir placed beneath skin during surgery. The medical practitioner pierces the reservoir through the skin with the fine needle. The amount of saline injected initially usually depends upon the late of the patient before the surgery. It is determined by the physician based upon the patient's health and current weight.

The gastric band is not permanent. It can be removed once the patient reaches its weight loss goals. There will be a short hospital stay after the surgery has been done.

People who have had the gastric banding surgery can lose a significant amount of weight. The estimated amount of weight is approximately 40 to 50% of their excess weight and it usually takes about two years to reach their goal weight.

There are some foods that people who have had the surgery may have trouble eating. These foods are costs to, rice, fibrous foods, pasta and red meat. They must chew foods thoroughly and swallowed slowly or they could become nauseous.

Gastric banding surgery may seem like a drastic measure to some but to others who are morbidly obese, it can be a lifesaver. Only your doctor can advise you as to whether this surgery is for you. He or she may want to try other options such as diet and exercise before advising surgery.