LAP BAND

I know you all are probably tired of hearing from me and all the problems I am having with that Open RNY, so I have something new for you... I know lap-band is reversable. So how many people have had the lap-band done? How much weight loss in what time frame? Say if later on down the road you don't lose the weight that you want to lose, could you go in and have it removed and have the Open RNY? I am just curious on the success stories on the lap-band. I have done more research on the gastric Open RNY. Any information would be great... Thanks Sonya Mantachie MS

Revision from Lap Band to RNY is possible.  Infact there are a lot of them performed.  I am an RNY, but from what I understand and have witnessed Lap Banders "can" lose as well as RNY.  The difference for me was the absorption issue.  I also know that you can eat past the lap band.  I needed something that would make me be more strict.  Lap Band takes a little more self control.  If you talk to a surgeon, they will recommend the best option for you.  I also know that some insurance companies don't cover the lap band yet, but will cover RNY.  I would HIGHLY recommend that you attend a seminar at CMMC.  You have to register for it.  It's free.  They are very informative.  They cover the different surgery options and tell you the pros and cons to each one.    Why are you considering open instead of lap?  Just curious.

Hope this helps a little.  ;-) 

 be careful with the mindset that "the lapband is reversable".  I had the nonadjustable band done before the lap band was FDA approved ....and I had problems.  When I finally found a surgeon to remove the band, it was almost disasterous.  It took two surgeons almost four hours to "undo" the band.  The material had grown into my stomache (and my stomache had flipped on itself underneath the band....something they have since 'fixed' with a suturing technique).  But long story short--I initially chose the band because I didn't want the permanance of the RNY.....but after having the band, losing 160 pounds, then having it taken off and within a year and a half gaining 160 pounds back.....I then had RNY and have lost and kept off 120 pounds for over a year now.  I realized that I HAD to have something permanant.  I was down to 140 after the band, and I couldn't keep it off by myself. I think they've made great improvements with the band and it works great for lots of people (in fact, I had wanted to have the band replaced...but due to the damage that was done, I had to have RNY or the DS...and my surgeon chose the RNY for me once he was in there and saw everything).  good luck in your research! mary

I myself have done more research on the open RNY and would prefer it due to needed a hernia fixed and needing something strict for me. It looks like I am going to have to contact the surgeons in Jackson and see if someone there thinks I am a candidate and go from there. But if not a candidate for the open then will go for lapband. Thanks for all the info you have all given me. My husband supports me in whatever i choose and I am glad i have found all of you also.. Thanks  Sonya Mantachie MS

I'm a fairly new lapbander and so far with my progress i'm pleased with it.  I just passed my second month and if you would like to view my weight loss results check out my profile and pics.  I will say that regardless of which you choose there will be a considerable lifestyle change.  Thanks to my band i've learned to eat wiser and I actually know what the feeling of "full" is like.  Its amazing how a few changes in your lifestyle and your eating habits can change your outlook on life.  I'm not going to advocate rny vrs the band because surgery whether minor or not is life risking.  We all took that risk and I believe have had great results.  Towards me I chose this method due to the fact that I didn't have the recovery time for RNY.  I have a surgerymate that had RNY so i'm watching her progress as well as mine and as long as we are dropping weight together I would consider both tools a success.  Good luck on your progress and decision.