Why does everyone question why I chose OPEN RNY

People can't beleive that I have chosen Open RNY instead of Lap. I've done my research and decided to go with the procedure that was performed most often up to this point. Can anyone give me any other reasons to choose Lap RNY over Open RNY , other than less recovery time and pain? I guess it all depends on what makes you feel comfortable. Thanks, Peg

Peg, It is all a personal decision. I actually had a hard time deciding, for the very same reason you listed, howver I have six children to take care of and need the faster recovery time, so I opted for the lap. But everyone chooses different procedures for their own needs and you have the right to do whatever you want. Best of luck to you. Shawn M.

I suppose you are right. God Bless you and your large family. I hope you will be getting a lot of help after your surgery? Best of luck to you as well! Peg G.

I also had a hard time deciding... my Surgeon has done far more open but I opted for the lap because of shorter recovery times. There are good reasons to choose open, if the gallbladder needs to be removed then it's easier, plus, the Surgeon has his hands instead of instruments to do the work, so there is less chance of making a mistake. Just remember that most Surgeons offer a choice for a reason, and there is nothing wrong with picking the one that you are most comfortable with... Marilyn

I am choosing to do the lap because of the recovery time. It is all up to what you feel is best for you.

I get a similar question with my choice as well. I'm choosing a surgery that is not as well known and some people think I'm nuts because it's not the "gold standard". But everyone has to do the one they are most comfortable with. I'm tired of defending myself and trying to convince others of the benefits of the one I chose. I hope you have an easy surgery and recovery, whichever way you chose to go.

Hi Peg, My surgeon didn't give me an option. I am having open RNY as well. I can give you the benefits. 1. Less surgery time compared to lap 2. Less chance of having a leak 3. Less anesthesia is required because of less time 4. (my opionion only) I like the fact my surgeon can truly see what he's doing. 5. 8 weeks off of work instead of 4 the disadvantages 1. Longer healing time 2. higher chance for infection 3. bigger scar Since I didn't get a choice I really can't say one way or the other. I have come to terms with this, and I don't see it as a disadvantage. I have a friends that have had LAP and I have friends that have had open. They all have pain, the healing on the outside is much quicker then the healing on the inside, and we all have to heal the same way in that respect. I was told by my surgeon that my bikini cut, c-section that I had in 1983, will be about the same on the pain scale, and chance of infection as the open RNY that I am about to go through. Except I can see this incision site, I couldn't see the bikini cut very well. I was 220 pounds when I delivered my daughter. So I am not worried. I didn't get anything for pain then, so if it's not any worse I should be fine, *side note I had bronchitis when I had the c-section every time I coughed it felt like I was going to split in two* I think you made a good choice. And it's your peace of mind that will make it work better for you. Take care & God Bless, Sheryl

Hi Sheryl. Thanks for your insight. I did have a choice between Open or Lap. And I chose Open for 2 of the reasons above. Less anesthesia time..and less chance of a leak. I'm confident I made the right choice for me. I think each person has different reasons for what they choose. And you're right. A positive attitude is needed for any type of surgery. Good Luck on the 20th! P.S. I have a cold now. I'm going to call the Dr. on Monday. Hope that sinus infection gets better. They are a stubborn infection to shake. Peg G.