Decisions, Decisions...

Hello CT! I am in the process of being approved for Lap-Band surgery. It seems that most of the people on the CT board have had RNY though. I am hoping for some insight to understand why some people opted for RNY rather than Lap-Band, and if you could go back and do it over, would you still choose RNY? Thanks for your input!

Hi Kristin, Welcome to the CT Board! I had open RNY 10/03, and yes, I would do it again in a heartbeat. I originally looked into the Lap Band but 1) my insurance didn't cover it; 2) I wanted something that was a bit more fool-proof. I wanted something that would not allow me to 'cheat' and fall into my bad eating habits. I'm on of the 'lucky' people who still dump on sugar and fatty foods, and honestly, I'm happy I do...it keeps me on the right path. BUT if my insurance (BCBS) covered the Lap Band, chances are good I would have had that. Best of luck to you! -Deb

Thanks for your input, Deb! It is a tough --and personal -- decision to make. It is just so hard to know in advance what the right choice is. I am so happy that you have had so much success! You look wonderful!

Kristin: When I first started to consider WLS I wanted the band. The more I researched it though I found it was not strict enough for me. I was a carb queen. I do feel it is a great option for others just not for me. Also my insurance would not pay for the ban either. Best of luck to you. Chryssie

I had the open RNY as that is what my insurance would pay for. However, I had researched and had pretty much came to the conclusion that I wanted/needed the permanence of open surgery. I didn't want to be able to "fool around" with this...it's serious and I didn't want to ever take it lightly.

Thank you everyone for your input! I am so glad you all know in your hearts you made the right choice! I have heard that my doctor tends to encourage patients to do RNY rather than the band -- maybe based on the nutritionist/psych results (?). Once I have my one on one with him we will see what he says. Time will tell.... In the mean time - thanks!