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Weight Loss Surgery FAQ

We have gathered here some of the most frequent questions from people who are considering undergoing bariatric surgery. If your questions do not feature here, please contact Dr Silverman who would be happy to arrange a short consultation with you.

What is a gastric balloon?

This procedure is a temporary option for patients who would prefer not to undergo surgery. It involves the placement of a balloon-like medical device in the stomach via the mouth and oesophagus using an endoscope. No surgical incisions are required. The balloon reduces the capacity of the stomach which in turn leads to gradual weight loss.

The balloon can be easily removed in a reversal of the original procedure, and in fact this reversal is generally performed around six months after first being inserted. A gastric balloon is also referred to as an intra-gastric balloon.

What is a gastric banding?

Gastric Banding is where a special medical device in the form of an adjustable band is placed around the stomach. This option is also often referred to as lap band surgery.

What are the surgical options for weight loss?

There are four main approaches in bariatric surgery. The one that is most suitable for an individual patient will be based entirely on their specific circumstances, and Dr Silverman is able to help all patients decide which option is most suitable for them.

These procedures are:

After losing a large amount of weight will I have excess skin in those areas where the weight was lost?

In short, yes this is a possibility. There is a surgical procedure to correct this, known as an 'apronectomy' where excess skin and other fat tissue can be removed. This procedure is offered to Dr Silverman's patients who have completed the Peak program – a 12-month weight loss program.

What is a gastric sleeve?

This procedure involves removing roughly 85% of the stomach capacity. It is a permanent change. This procedure is also known as a Sleeve Gastrectomy.