The Realize Adjustable Gastric Band is a new and innovative bariatric surgery option. It consists of two medical devices implanted at the same time. The first implant is a band that is designed to wrap around the upper part of the stomach. The second band, which is called the Realize Injection Port attaches to the abdominal wall underneath the skin. Both components are made of soft, biocompatible materials.

Gastric banding surgery is a specialized form of bariatric surgery. During the surgery, a gastric band is wrapped around the upper part of the stomach in order to limit food intake and slow the digestive process. The laproscopic surgery process of the Realize Band helps patients achieve significant weight loss by limiting the amount of food that a person can eat at one time, causing patients to feel full sooner than they would previously.

You may be a candidate for this type of surgery if you meet the following criteria, a body mass index, or BMI of at least 40 or 35 when combined with a serious obesity related condition, at least two previous failed conventional weight loss attempts, and are at least eighteen years old. A surgeon will also evaluate your health history to determine whether you have any conditions that may put you at greater risk for developing complications after surgery.

Preparing for your Realize Adjustable Gastric Band surgery means educating yourself about the risks and requirements of your surgery, and familiarizing yourself with your personalized team of health care professionals, which will likely include your bariatric surgeon, primary care physician, psychological counselor, dietician, weight management center, and fitness expert.. It is also recommended that patients attend support groups before their surgery, in order to give them time to find one that they can continue to attend post surgery.

You should also begin following your new diet and exercise routine before your Realize Adjustable Gastric Band surgery. Immediately following your surgery, you will be on a liquid diet, with the introduction of soft foods three to six weeks later. For a short time, you will also need to avoid foods such as carrots, stringy meats, and crusty breads, as these may block your stoma. You will also need to avoid alcohol and all carbonated beverages. It takes time to accustom to any major lifestyle change, and the more time pre surgery you allow yourself, the greater your chances for success.