Many people who are considering weight loss surgery are looking for a procedure that can be reversed. Some people want the option in case they don’t like the effects of the surgery. Others like the idea that the surgery can be reversed once they reach their target weight. If you want a reversible weight loss procedure, gastric band surgery is the right option for you. However, there are some good reasons not to have the procedure reversed unless it is absolutely necessary. Most weight loss procedures are permanent, even when the option of reversal is there.

Reversible Weight Loss Surgery

Gastric band surgery is the only reversible bariatric procedure. Nothing is removed during the procedure and the route that food takes through your digestive system is not changed, unlike with the sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass surgeries. If the operation needs to be reversed, the band can simply be taken out again. As well as being a reversible procedure, the gastric band is also adjustable. The amount of restriction on what you can eat can be changed. The restriction can be increased to help you lose more weight, or reduced if you are finding it too hard or when you reach your weight loss goal.

Why the Band Usually Stays In

Although gastric band surgery is reversible, very few people actually have the band taken out again. Removing the band would require another operation under a general anaesthetic, which is something your doctor will usually want to avoid. Unless there is a problem with the band or a medical reason to have it removed, it will usually be left in place permanently. Having the gastric band there can also help you to maintain your weight loss after you reach your target. If you need any extra help to prevent weight gain in the future, the band will be there to help you. It can simply be adjusted to give you a little more restriction when it is needed.