Are gastric bands permanent?

Yes, gastric bands are permanent, but it’s important to understand that they are not a ‘one-off’ treatment. Gastric bands involve an adjustable band being placed around the top part of your stomach to create a small pouch above the band. This restricts the amount of food that can be held in your stomach and so you feel full faster than before and so eat less. The level of restriction can then be adjusted over time by injecting or removing saline from the band via a subcutaneous port in your skin.

Gastric Band surgery is generally recommended as a long-term solution for people who require significant weight loss and its effects should last indefinitely if managed properly; however, like all surgical solutions, there is no guarantee against complications or side effects - some patients have had their gastric bands removed due to ongoing problems such as infection or difficulty with adjusting them.

Given this, it's important that you work closely with your medical team (including dietitians and psychologists) both before and after having any kind of bariatric procedure - including gastric bands - to ensure that yours is successful in achieving long-term weight loss goals safely and effectively.