The procedure is done laparoscopically and involves implantation of an inflatable gastric band made of silicon to be placed around the upper part of the stomach. This procedure does not involve any cutting or stapling of the stomach.

The silicon band is adjustable and the inner diameter can be modified by inflating or deflating it with saline. This band creates a tiny pouch of the stomach which is meant to restrict the amount of food intake. The outlet is also small which ensures an earlier sensation of fullness and satiety with smaller quantities of food, both of these mechanisms result in weight loss. This surgery is considered as the simplest and the least invasive of the bariatric procedures. There is monthly adjustment of the band which is required to achieve best results.