Restrictive surgeries, such as Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Bands (the Lap Band^®),  and the REALIZE Swedish Band are the two that are approved by FDA), the sleeve gastrectomy procedure, and Vertical Banded Gastroplasty, reduce the amount of food the stomach can hold.  The procedures involve the creation of a small stomach pouch, or, in the case of sleeve gastrectomy, a tube-shaped stomach,  to decrease food intake, consume fewer calories, and ultimately achieve weight loss.  The purpose of this type of surgery is to help the patient limit the amount of solid food consumed at a time, thus helping with portion control.