The procedure is intended for people who are obese and have not been able to achieve weight loss through diet and exercise alone. It can help people lose weight by reducing the amount of food they can eat at one time and by creating a feeling of fullness after eating.

The procedure is performed laparoscopically, which means that small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (a small camera) is used to guide the surgeon. The surgery usually takes about an hour, and most people can return home the same day.

While the procedure is generally safe, there are risks associated with any surgical procedure, including bleeding, infection, and blood clots. In addition, there is a risk of complications associated with the gastric band, including band slippage, erosion, or migration, which can require additional surgery to correct.

It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of gastric band surgery with a qualified medical professional before undergoing the procedure. Patients who undergo gastric band surgery will also need to make significant lifestyle changes, including following a restricted calorie diet and increasing their physical activity to maintain weight loss.