Unsure about surgery

Hi there. I've been waiting to see Dr. Beau since 2005 and have gotten in to see him Nov.20. Up until I saw him I was sure I wanted bypass surgery. After talking to him I thought I wanted lap band because he said it has less complications and was a shorter surgery with no hospital stay. Then I went for the info session and the lady who spoke to us had bypass surgery and complications and all, she said she was glad she went that route and wouldn't have changed anything (except the complications). I got to thinking for the last 2 weeks and I think I want the bypass too. I'm pretty sure that I will cheat my way past the band but dumping syndrome should put a quick end to sweet and fat eating. I think the band takes more will power than I have. Anyone else feel that way?

Hey Maggie, you seem new so welcome to the board. :)

Just so you know- it's completely normal to debate which surgery fits you and your lifestyle best. I am waiting on lapband with Dr. Savoie- but he gave me the choice between DS and Lapband. It did take me awhile to decide on which I felt would be best for me, and I choose the lap band in the end.

Concerning will power and the band- my friend described it in a way that made sense to me (she's been banded successfully for three years)

"Dieting without the band is driving to work 20 miles with a bicycle"
"Dieting with the lapband is like driving to work in your car- still hard but much easier"

The band does require will power- but my friend tells me once it's working properly (meaning you are at proper restriction) that it is much easier than dieting alone would be.

so welcome and debate away

Hi,
Unless there is a medical motive...ie diabiates, or something else that really points a Dr. to one surgery or another...it really is up to the food and eating lifestyle you want after the surgery.  Many go for the band as it is a much easier surgery.  They know it is a tool, and even with fills every 6 weeks or so, once the fills are just right...people tend to loose ....but in almost call cases...this is through dieting, and we see this often in posts.  It is the "while dieting" that throws me off.  They are all tools...for me I have crap will power and the less I have to "diet" the better. 

So...all I can suggest is read all the forums.  Get a real feal for the lives people are leading around food.  And one surgery will start to come out of the fog as being a right fit for you. 

I see some incredabily focused people here with their bands, they are very successful......but for me...I was really worried I could loose, but then I would gain.   I could live with surgery risks...I just could not live with the regain risks.  But...that is just me.   

You need to feel good about your choice...and if it is not clear...keep reading...keep asking the questions!    For me, personally the band is alot of work, the rny is a bit of work, the DS is a free pass.    But....I can assure you....many would not see things the same way..and that is what makes us all right in our own way...using our own experiences to go by.

Good luck,
Catherine