What type of bariatric surgery is considered restrictive?

Laparoscopic gastric banding is classified as a restrictive type of bariatric surgery. This procedure involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch that limits the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. This restriction helps individuals feel fuller with smaller portions, thus leading to reduced calorie intake and supporting weight loss.

The adjustability of the band also allows for customization; healthcare providers can modify the tightness of the band to either restrict or allow more food passage, which helps in managing weight loss effectively over time. This mechanism focuses primarily on limiting the size of the stomach without altering the digestive process or impacting nutrient absorption significantly, which distinguishes it from other types of bariatric surgeries that may have both restrictive and malabsorptive components.

Other types of bariatric surgeries listed, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and duodenal switch, typically involve more than just restriction; they also change the anatomy of the digestive system to limit nutrient absorption, which is not a focus in gastric banding.