Gastric band and Liposuction are both ways of getting rid of excess body fat. While the two procedures may seem comparable they each have distinct applications.
Gastric Band
Gastric banding facilitates weight loss by encouraging a reduction in daily food intake. This does not produce instant results but helps to achieve a sustainable weight over time. During gastric band surgery a band is placed around the stomach, forming two sections. The first section quickly becomes filled with food during eating. This leads to a feeling of being full, discouraging further eating. The food passes from this section into the second where it is processed as usual.
Liposuction
Liposuction surgery removes fat from a specific area. Results are instant, although as with any surgery, a small amount of recovery time should be expected. Liposuction surgery consists of a tube under the skin of the desired area and fat cells are then sucked out using a vacuum like instrument.
Comparing the Two
Gastric band and liposuction are suitable for different situations. A gastric band is suitable for people with a BMI in the range of 35 – 50 and enables the patient to change their eating habits, lose weight and prevent regaining it. Liposuction is more appropriate for those with less weight to lose, or a specific area they wish to lose weight from.
Liposuction and gastric band prices continue to fall as they both become increasingly popular. Liposuction can cost as little as £1600 and a gastric band cost under £4000.