Lapband vs RNY

How does a person decide on which WLS to choose OPEN FOR COMMENTS Thanks DollyC

My decision to have Lap-RNY was based on my health issues and the projected amount of time and quality of life I had pre-surgically.  After doing all of my research and consulting with my surgeon twice, I chose the RNY.  He tried to talk me into the Lap-Band because of my risk of complications but we both agreed that I needed to lose the weight faster than the Band allows.  I was that close to dying from my obesity related problems.  The band has it's advantages but I just didn't have time.  I was willing to take the risks involved specifically with my co-morbidities in order to prolong my life and lose the weight faster.  So far at 2 years out, the only bothersome complication I am having is ulcer, which is treatable.

We are each unique in our health issues and what is needed to put a stop to disease progression as far as weight loss is concerned.  Whatever you decide, good luck and stay with that specific program.

Dolly, Having WLS is not an easy choice to begin with. I talked with the surgeon 1st, Dr Irgau, then I found a  support group, went, talked with post-ops, listened to their stories, and made a decision based on my research. OBTW that took aqbout 10 months to make that decision. The 1st support group I attended was PMRI through CHRIAS. That was the only 1 at the time. That 1st meeting I was hooked. I had never been in a roomfull of people where I actually felt like I was at home. I had so mu*****ommon with everyone in the room and felt comfortable for the 1st time in my life. Their stories were the same as mine. My journey has been successful because of the support I have gotten not only from my family, but,  mostly because of my friends I have made here and at the many meetings I have attended. There are groups all over the state now. If you would like a current list, I could email it to you. Best to check with the Leaders of each group for details.

I will be 5yrs out in January, RNY, down 200 lbs and loving my new healthy life. If you read some profiles on Obesity help, double click on the names, it will bring up information that we have input. You will find the good, bad and the ugly. 

((HUGS)) Elissa

Dolly, Do Your research and decide what is best for you.  Each case is different. Personally myself I think you have to look at your personal history and what you feel will work best for you. The first place I started was support groups. You meet people who are newly out and people who had it done years ago.  Remember WLS is not for everyone. It is no easy way out. You have to work it everyday. It is only a tool but you have to use the tool in order for it to work. Best of luck in whatever you decide. See You Lighter. Joanne

Hey Dolly,
   Like everyone says...do the research and look at your past history....Talk to the CHRIAS surgeons (if that is where you plan to have it done....they are GREAT)..Also go visit both the Lapband and Gastric By Pass websites and talk with them...You will get both positive and negative responses about each surgery, but they might provide you with each of there own knowledge and experiences....Best of luck...Dave