The Fern Britton Furore

Gastric band surgery has been given unprecedented attention in the news lately due to presenter Fern Britton’s admission that she had one fitted to help her lose weight. A gastric band is a restrictive device implanted via bariatric surgery and designed for obese patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater.  The procedure helps slows the passage of food to the stomach so only small meals can be eaten, but giving the impression of being full.

The decision to have a gastric band fitted is rarely taken lightly and is often a last resort when other weight management options have failed.  Those receiving the treatment must be prepared to make huge eating and lifestyle changes in order for it to be beneficial.  We applaud Fern and many like her who have made such an important and brave decision for the good of their long-term health.  

We see a number of patients who have had gastric bands fitted and who then opt for a full body lift after losing weight. Excess skin on the body after weight loss occurs because skin loses its elasticity, often resulting in stretch marks and sagging. Many people find that although they exercise to tone up, the problem still persists.

Popular ways of correcting these issues are procedures such as breast uplift (mastopexy), where loose skin is removed to reshape the breast; tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), in which the abdominal muscles are stitched back together; and breast augmentation (enlargement), which boosts volume and reshapes the breast.

If you are considering any type of treatment we would always recommend you research your chosen procedure as thoroughly as you can. At McIndoe we hold regular open evenings to aid anyone considering surgery. Further information is available from our helpline on 0800 9174922.  Email info@mcindoesurgical.co.uk or complete the contact form on our website.