The Ultimate Guide to Gastric Band in Bali

Last fact-checked: 26 January 2020

A gastric band in Bali is a highly-effective weight loss surgery that can help you combat obesity. Often not covered by insurance and expensive when done privately at home, this life-changing surgery costs thousands less in Bali. 

Discover more about the procedure and book your treatment with Medical Departures to kick-start your new weight-loss regime.

What Is a Gastric Band and Is it for Me?

This surgery is known by various other names, including lap band surgery and laparoscopic gastric band (LAGB). The procedure sees a band inserted through tiny incisions to reduce the size of the stomach size. Using a laparoscope (keyhole surgery), the surgeon places the band across the stomach and tightens it, leaving a small opening for the food to pass through. After the stomach size has been reduced, you will only be able to small meals—yet not experience hunger pangs. This results in quick, effective weight loss.

It should be noted that gastric bands aren’t a magic solution for weight loss on their own; patients also need to be aware of what they’re eating—not just how much. For example, greasy food, ice-cream and high-calorie drinks can still be consumed in such amounts that won’t lead to significant weight loss, if any at all. See here for other things you need to know about gastric bands before going ahead. 

Weight loss is important not only so you look and feel better, but also because of health reasons. Statistics show that diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. If you are obese as well as diabetic, then the disease can largely be reversed after bariatric surgery. Obesity also increases the chances of a heart attack, stroke, cancer, arthritis, sleep apnea, asthma and many other chronic conditions. 

Why Consider Gastric Band Surgery in Bali?

While money is an important factor when heading overseas for medical treatment, bariatric surgeries like this do carry a slightly higher degree of risk compared to cosmetic procedures (although this risk is normally associated with the patient’s pre-existing health condition rather than anything else). Either way, it is paramount that you find an experienced bariatric surgeon and book with a quality-checked clinic or hospital. Thankfully, Bali is home to numerous high-quality facilities— with the Indonesian island emerging as a top medical tourism destination. 

Aside from the professionalism available, Bali is an incredible place to visit for a holiday before your surgery. You can enjoy the year-round temperate climate in this beautiful country so you are not restricted in any way by weather conditions. And there is a great deal to see and do here thanks to the many natural and historical attractions, as well as tourist activities and pursuits, including great dining-out options, bars, clubs and beaches. 

While Bali is also famous for its adventure activities, it is a good idea to get any activities out of the way before surgery as you will be restricted in your movements after the surgery.

It is also a favorite holiday destination to residents of the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK via frequent flights that land daily on the island.

Why Should You Book with Medical Departures?

The most important reason that you should book with Medical Departures is that we offer you greater safety. We investigate the background, qualifications, experience and credentials of the doctors working at the clinics and hospitals listed on our website. And we interview patients who have undergone surgery to see that they had a satisfactory experience.

You can also take advantage of our best price guarantee to ensure you won’t be paying more than you have to when booking through Medical Departures. 

How Long Does a Gastric Band in Bali Take and What Is the Estimated Recovery Time?

Unless there is a necessary medical reason not to do so, the surgery is done under local anesthesia; this means your recovery is faster and surgery is over in about an hour or so. While still a serious operation, especially for morbidly obese patients, it does not carry as much risk or take as long as other bariatric surgeries, such as the gastric sleeve. 

Sometimes, the doctor may prefer general anesthesia depending on your weight and other existing medical conditions. As the surgery is done endoscopically, and the band is adjusted using saline, you will be able to leave the hospital relatively soon.

It is important that you go for follow-up appointments as required so that your band can be adjusted until you feel comfortable. You will also need to follow a specific pre- and post-dietary schedule. You can expect a recovery period of around 10 days, but it will be several weeks until you can go back to solid foods and your normal, albeit smaller diet.

What Is the Cost of a Gastric Band in Bali?

Gastric band surgery in the U.S. can set you back by US$10,656 (CAD 14,275 £8,724, €9,718, AUD 14,000 (NZD 14,275). In Bali you can expect to pay up to 70% less. 

Get started now by checking out the popular BIMC Hospital (Nusa Dua), one of our partner facilities in Bali that welcomes medical tourists.

How Do I Book?

See below or connect with Medical Departures’ Customer Care Team; they are available 24/7 to provide additional information about gastric band surgery in Bali.

Sources:

Zuckerman, Diana, PhD; Carroll, Jenna. Gastric Lap-Bands: What You Need to Know. National Center for Health Research. 2019.
http://www.center4research.org/gastric-lap-bands-need-know/" target="_blank

Statistics About Diabetes. American Diabetes Association. 2016.
https://www.diabetes.org/resources/statistics/statistics-about-diabetes" target="_blank

What Is Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Surgery? WebMD. 25 December 2018.
https://www.webmd.com/diet/obesity/what-is-gastric-sleeve-weight-loss-surgery#1" target="_blank

Bali. Lonely Planet. Website accessed: 26 January 2020.
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/bali" target="_blank