University of California, San Diego Medical Center – Center for the Treatment of Obesity

Gastric Band Surgery – For more information, call 1-800-926-UCSD

About Dr. Horgan

Candidates

Eligibility Criteria

Gastric banding is not right for everyone.

It might be right for you if you meet the following criteria:

  • You are severely overweight. Calculate your BMI in the column to the left.

  • You have been overweight for more than 5 years.

  • Your serious attempts to lose weight have had only short-term success.

  • You do not have any other disease that may have caused your obesity.

  • You are prepared to make substantial changes in your eating habits and lifestyle.

  • You are willing to follow a pre-operative nutritional program to prepare you for the procedure.

  • You are willing to continue being monitored by the specialist who is treating you.

  • You do not drink alcohol in excess.

  • NEW! UCSD is now evaluating whether gastric banding is a safe and effective option for teens, aged 14-17. Find out if your teen qualifies.

Please discuss your individual eligibility further with our surgeon during your initial one-on-one consultation at UCSD Medical Center.

    Gastric Banding Advantages

    In comparison to other forms of bariatric surgery, gastric banding using the LAP-BAND® or REALIZE Band has many advantages, including:

    • Safest, least invasive surgical option
    • No stomach stapling or intestinal re-routing
    • Shorter hospital stay
    • Only adjustable, reversible surgical option