A gastric band operation is commonly performed and generally safe. However, in order to make an informed decision and give your consent, you need to be aware of the possible side-effects and the risk of complications of this procedure.

Side-effects

These are the unwanted, but mostly temporary effects of a successful treatment, for example feeling sick as a result of the general anaesthetic.

• You are likely to have some bruising, pain and swelling of the skin around the healing wounds.

• You may feel or be sick after eating, especially if you try to eat too much. Your restricted diet may cause some shortage of nutrients so you may need to take multivitamin tablets, your NIOPPS practitioner will advise you on this before the operation.