Gastric Band Adjustment

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

Q: How is the Band Adjusted?

Gastric bands are fitted around the top of the stomach and essentially "inflated" with saline to provide the pressure which creates feeling of fullness so that you eat less.  It is adjustable, as a tube runs between the band and an "access port" so that your Weight Loss Nurse can adjust teh band when necessary.  The port is beneath the skin and usually positioned under the sternum. 

To adjust the band, your nurse will insert a needle through the skin into the port to add or remove saline and increase or decrease the pressure the band creates on your stomach.  This is a very quick procedure and carried out under local anaesthetic.  You can return home or to work straightaway following a Lap-Band adjustment.

Q: How do I know if I need an adjustment?

Band adjustments will be done in full consultation and liaison with your weight loss support team, but you will learn to recognise the signs that your band needs adusting. If the band is too tight OR too loose, then you will not have optimum weight loss. This chart shows further information:

• When CORRECTLY ADJUSTED, you will feel full for a long time and be satisfied by small meals.  You will be achieving satisfactory weight loss or maintenance

• When the band is TOO LOOSE you will feel hungry and still want large meals - your band needs to be tightened by the addition of more saline

• When the band is TOO TIGHT you will feel uncomfortable and may have side effects such as reflux heartburn, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation or night cough - your band needs to be "aspirated" or loosened by having some fluid removed

Q: How Many Band Adjustments?

This is an individual matter.  Your weight loss will be monitored ongoing by your weight loss support team (dietitians and weight loss nurses).  In the first year, you should expect several adjustments, but after that it generally becomes more infrequent as your weight loss slows and you reach your target weight. 

Remember, although the band is adjustable, it is not advisable to over tighten or to adjust the band too often. 

Q: What does band adjustment cost?

For the first 2 years, all your band adjustments are included FREE in your aftercare package, so you don't need to worry.  After 2 years, you should expect to have achieved significant weight loss and the requirement for band adjustments is much less frequent.

The Hospital Group charge £125 for a band adjustment out of package.