A restrictive procedure, during which an inflatable band is placed around the upper part of the stomach. This creates a smaller stomach pouch, which restricts the amount of food that can be consumed at one time and increases the time it takes for the stomach to empty. As a result, a patient achieves sustained weight loss by limiting food intake, reducing the appetite and slowing digestion.

A combination procedure that uses both restrictive and malabsorptive elements. First the stomach is stapled to make a smaller pouch. Then, most of the stomach and part of the intestines are bypassed by attaching a part of the intestine to the small stomach pouch. As a result, a patient cannot eat as much and absorbs fewer nutrients and calories.

• Promising new technology
• Simpler operation, lower mortality
• Slow and steady weight loss, settling at final weight around 2 years after surgery. 60% excess weight loss
• Low malnutrition risk, long-term supplements also recommended
• No Dumping syndrome
• Reversible
• Long term (non-reactive) plastic material in body
• The Band must be adjusted for best success. Regular follow-up critical for optimal results
• Same day surgery and discharge
• Least invasive

• Gold standard, time tested
• Complex operation, multiple areas of abdomen involved, higher mortality rate
• Rapid weight loss over 3-6 months, settling at final weight 10-16 months after surgery. 70% excess weight loss
• Deficiency in mineral absorption, requiring long-term supplements
• Dumping syndrome (intolerance to sugars and some carbohydrates)
• Not reversible
• No significant hardware in body
• Non adjustable
• Requires overnight hospital stay
• More invasive