What type of procedure is gastric banding classified under?

Gastric banding is classified as a restrictive procedure because it involves placing a band around the upper portion of the stomach to create a smaller pouch. This smaller stomach capacity limits the amount of food that can be consumed at one time, promoting feelings of fullness with smaller meals. The primary aim of this procedure is to help individuals lose weight by reducing food intake without altering the digestive process itself, which distinguishes it from malabsorptive procedures that reroute or bypass parts of the digestive system to decrease nutrient absorption.

While reconstructive procedures generally involve fixing or altering bodily structures for medical or health reasons, gastric banding specifically targets weight loss and is not aimed at repairing bodily functions. Cosmetic procedures focus on enhancing physical appearance, which is not the objective of gastric banding, as it is primarily intended for weight reduction and its associated health benefits. Therefore, the restrictive nature of gastric banding makes it effective for individuals looking to manage their weight through controlled food intake.