A gastric band, or LAP-BAND, is a weight loss surgery device that restricts the stomach's size with a silicone band. Surgically implanted, it creates a smaller upper stomach pouch, limiting food intake. The band's tightness can be adjusted with saline injections via a port under the skin. This procedure aims to help patients feel full sooner, promoting weight loss, but it's becoming less common due to newer, more effective weight loss surgeries.

Gastric band surgery may have side effects, including nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and difficulty swallowing. Band slippage, erosion, or leakage can occur, leading to extra surgeries. A lot of patients don't get the results they hoped for and often experience weight regain. These common side effects are driving patients towards more minimally invasive weight loss surgeries.

Weight loss surgery abroad is often chosen due to long NHS waiting times and high UK private clinic costs. While India, the Emirates, and South America offer options, distant travel can be uncomfortable. Opting for weight loss surgery in Europe, particularly Latvia can be more convenient. Latvia boasts high-quality bariatric surgeries, short waiting lists, and affordability. Riga's international airport simplifies travel, making it a popular choice for patients from the UK and Europe seeking cost-effective, high-standard procedures with minimal travel hassle and cultural adjustments.

A gastric band limits food intake, leading to initial weight loss, but its challenges shouldn't be underestimated. Maintaining weight loss demands lifelong commitment, including dietary restrictions and frequent band adjustments to avoid regaining weight. It's essential to consider these long-term commitments before opting for this procedure.

Yes, gastric band removal is possible and relatively common. Many individuals seek our clinic for this procedure. This is usually due to complications with the band or inadequate weight loss- the band can be safely removed by a surgical team with experience in this area.

Bariatric surgery in Latvia is gaining popularity due to specialized clinics offering competitive prices. Weight Loss Riga stands out with experienced surgeons and top-notch facilities, maintaining strict safety and professionalism standards similar to the UK. Patients considering gastric sleeve or other weight loss procedures can trust our safe and secure environment. Latvia offers safer, less invasive surgeries, like mini gastric bypass, using advanced techniques. Our clinic emphasizes low risks, with no reported deaths due to procedures or negligence. Patients receive personalized care from experienced surgeons and dedicated coordinators for a stress-free experience, even post-surgery.

A gastric band is not a permanent solution for weight loss. Over time, it may require multiple adjustments, repairs, or even removal due to complications such as band slippage, erosion, or leakage. The need for ongoing maintenance and potential issues can make the long-term reliability of gastric bands a concern for some individuals seeking weight loss solutions.

Gastric band slippage is a common complication where the silicone band placed around the stomach may move or slip out of its intended position. This can cause the upper stomach pouch to become larger, reducing the restriction on food intake and potentially leading to inadequate weight loss or other problems, necessitating surgical correction.

While gastric bands in the UK may range in price from £5,000 to £8,000, we have chosen not to provide this procedure at Weight Loss Riga due to its limited effectiveness and associated risks. Instead, we focus on offering safer and more successful weight loss solutions.

Our weight loss clinic in Latvia upholds rigorous private clinic standards. With a dedicated team of professionals and some of Europe's finest surgeons, we prioritize top-quality care. Riga's well-connected international airport simplifies travel from the UK and across Europe. You'll find comfortable, hotel-like accommodations, and we recommend bringing someone with you to ease the experience of having weight loss surgery abroad. Our English-speaking staff ensures personalized, attentive care, making you feel like a welcomed guest rather than a mere patient.