I have a question for Maria, and others in the ANTI-BAND camp

My question:

Is SUCCESS the end-all-be-all to WLS?

Because I agree with you in that, you CAN be more successful via other WLS.

The flip side of the argument, my position, is that the others are MAJOR surgeries that involve re-routing and/or removal or entrails and organs.  A scary proposition.

But if you're argument is that SUCCESS defines WLS, then you are technically in the right for some.

 Hmmm...that is an interesting point Big P!

Glad to have made you think, Disco Gal.  I am afraid a lot of people see a higher faiure rate in the band, and conclude that it is an inadequate surgery.  However, I venture that, because of it's removability, it is much SAFER! 

I don't know about you, but when I had WLS, SAFETY trumped SUCCESS (although I am sure a small percentage of the population can draw an opposite conclusion).

 I would rather be alive than...not.  And that's not to mention quality of life.

Although, I think the lapband pushers should step up the research on making a better band. Is there a new non -needle fill band? Something magnetic or something? I heard some talk about this once...

Never heard of such a thing.

I have heard rumors of this band...but just that...rumors, never actually any research or anything, would be cool though :)  (I still love my band, we are working to get it back where should be but I am very satisfied with my choice.) :) 

Well said Big Philly I rarely post on this board but I have had my band for 3 years while I am not at goal yet I have managed to keep my weight off with no major band issues.  For that I am greatful.  Some people constantly bash the band..... you have to pick the surgery that is best for you.  Is there a high failure rate I dont know but I do know that I see alot of people that have had other WLS trying to get revisions as well I have 2 family members (my aunt and sister in law)  who both had RNY and are looking to revise because they have gained more than 50% of there weight back.  Keep in mind I am not degrading any WLS all I am saying is that you have to change your mind, eating habits and lifestyle as well as your stomach.  Basically you have to work tool no matter what tool you choose!

I know a few people who have FAILED their RNY as well.  One gentleman gained MORE than he lost.  And now his diet is screwed up for life.  And the man is only about 60.  It is unfortunate.

If you've spoken to or visited the revision forum the necessity to have the bad removes is dangerous and has left some people without the ability to have ANY surgery.  Not just having to physically CUT it from your stomach, our bodies being the GREAT things that they are often will grow around and/or attach themselves to foreign bodies in our bodies.  Also the scar tissue is an issue for the surrounding organs that the band and tubing touches.

Having your stomach and/or other OFFENDING limbs is often a benefit for life when say disease is present.  Like removing limbs that develop frost bite or gangrene or mastectomies or stomach that have cancer ulcers.

When I was researching the band and heard about the Sleeve...I too was initially apprehensive on "removing" my stomach.  BUT then I realized my stomach aids MY disease of obesity.  And I would have no problem removing any other "limb" that was slowing "eating" away from my LIFE in order to SAVE my life.  That was my take ultimately.

Ms Shell

I'm glad you gave it real thought before going with a WLS.  Congrats!!!!