Weight Loss Surgery

New lease of life…
If you are very overweight and have tried everything to lose those extra pounds with little success - then gastric banding could be the answer. Losing your extra weight will transform your lifestyle, help you realise your potential, and give you the life you want to live.

If you are considering weight loss surgery - here's everything you need to know.
At McIndoe we provide experienced bariatric surgeons, a comprehensive after-care programme, and personal attention from a team of weight loss specialists who will offer you support through your weight loss journey.

What is Gastric Banding?

Laparoscopic gastric banding, sometimes known as "lap banding", is a highly effective procedure to help overweight people achieve substantial and long-term weight loss, by limiting how much food you can eat.

An inflatable band is placed around the stomach to divide it into two parts, creating a smaller pouch at the top which takes less food, to make you feel full.
The food then passes slowly through the opening left by the gastric band into the lower part of your stomach. This will restrict the amount of food you eat, and make you feel fuller for longer.

How do I choose a surgeon to provide me with weight loss surgery? Who will I see?

This is probably the most important decision you will make. Finding a reputable general surgeon / bariatric surgeon is fundamental, and it is important that you trust and feel comfortable with your surgeon.
At McIndoe we can guarantee you will only be seen and treated by a GMC registered surgeon. All of whom hold or have held a similar post in the NHS, and have the qualification FRCS.

Many of our patients choose a McIndoe Surgeon following a recommendation from a friend or your GP. Your GP may recommend a surgeon, or you may prefer to attend one of our free informal open evenings (weight seminars) and meet some of our surgeons before you book a consultation.

How do I make an appointment to see a General Surgeon about a gastric band / lap band procedure? How to book a consultation

This can be made in a number of ways, a referral from your GP, contacting the consultant surgeons private office direct or by contacting our Helpline by phone or email. Our Helpline has a number of appointments available and can usually tailor an appointment to suit you. If you would prefer to find out more about the procedure and what is involved we hold regular open evenings for patients considering having a gastric band.

What should I expect from a consultation with my general surgeon?

Firstly, we guarantee that you will see a general surgeon who specialises in gastric banding. Your surgeon will take the time to treat you as an individual and listen to you, together with the support of a dietician, physician and an emotional support practitioner. They will work with you to help you achieve your goal.

Your surgeon will explain what the procedure involves i.e.
How may incisions there will be
How long the operation will take
What the recovery period is like and what to expect
The risks of the surgery.

After your consultation has taken place a no obligation written quotation will be sent to you for consideration. Should you decide to proceed we would invite you to have a further consultation. This allows the surgeon to reiterate points discussed previously, reaffirm your understanding of the surgery and associated risks and benefits, and make sure you have adequate arrangements at home post surgery etc. It is also a great opportunity for you to ask any questions that may have arisen since your previous visit. Only when this has been undertaken do we confirm your operation date.