Lap band Vs. RNY

I think I'm a little confused. I was thinking that RNY was referring to the lap band but I believe that refers to gastric bypass?!? What made you choose one versus the other? Does Dr. Aranow do the lap band? I am going to the mandatory meeting in May, but don't want to wait until May to find out he doesn't do Lap Banding. Any help is appreciated! thanks- Michelle

Michelle: Good morning. If you look at the surgeons page it shows what types of surgery each Dr. does. It looks like Dr.Aranow does both types (and a couple more). RNY is gastric bypass. I choose RNY because I crave sweets. From what I have researched the RNY seems like the best option for me. I want to know (or at least think) I will "dump" if I eat the wrong foods as this will help keep me in line. It seems to me that people loose more weight with RNY also. I have 100 pounds to loose. I also read that there is no mal-absorption with the lap band. This also helps you loose weight. Mal-absorption is not with out risk. You must take vit/min for the rest of your life. Since it looks like Dr.Aranow does all different types of WLS you'r best bet is to meet with him and together decide what option is best for you. If I were you I would research all the types he does so that you have a level of comfort with each option before you meet. Good luck, Chryssie

Hey! We have the same name If you can't find what you're looking for on here, I would call up the Drs. office and confirm what types of procedures he does. Don't wait until May to only have to be put on another long waiting list. Good luck, Michelle Lee, too

He does Lap Banding. I thought that Lap Banding was what I wanted done, unitll I met Dr. A and we discussed my issues. Through our discussion, I decided that Lap Banding wasn't right for me. Even though the whole reason I was even willing to consider WLS was because of the band and how much less permanent it was, I changed my mind when I got all the facts from an expert, as they relate to my situation. I really needed the behavior modification of RNY and I also needed to sever my relationship with food, which was very unhealthy. You situation may be different. I'd suggest, that in order to make yourself more confident, you call and speak with lois, his nurse, and she'll tell you the types of surgery he preforms. Then, talk to people who have had the lap band and those who have ahd RNY and think about your own cir****tances, as an obese person and what your issues are. Then, when you do speak w/Dr. A you'll have a lot more info and be ready for an intellegent discussion. Just as there are people who are unsuccessful with RNY, there are people who are unsuccessful with lap banding. I think it's most important to choose wisely. Good luck to you! P.S. Dr aranow is great, and well worth the wait. Lisa C RNY 11/14/02 st wt 306 current wt 143 (at goal and beyond!)

hi Michelle Dr. Aranow does do banding....he said I would be a good candidate because I dont eat a lot of sweets. There are pros and cons for both types of surgerys....I's a decision to be made by you and your doc. This web site has a section that describes each surgery...it might be helpful. good luck angel

I went into the process convinced I wanted to have the lap band. When I met with my doctor, he asked me what my favorite foods were. I answered ice cream, pasta & Twizzler's. He said "no lap band for you!" Evidently the simple carbs/sweets go right through & digest normally when you have the lap band. The RNY is a little more picky about what it lets through ... I'm sure you'll make the right choice for you. Good luck! Kathy F.