Lap Band Help in Akron

I've had my first visit with Dr. Z and it went well. I'm now debating on lab band vs gastric bypass. I have about 100 pounds to lose. I was set on lap band but now may be thinking the other way to gastric. Can you lose 100 pounds with the lap band? I know it might take more time but statistics say you only lose 50-60%. If I'm a good patient and do everything right is it possible to lose 100 pounds. Also, with the lap band, I know the first fill is usually 4-5 weeks after surgery...do you have to pay for these fills or does the insurance usually cover this procedure? Thanks for any advice!

Hi Brenda! I can tell you that in 14 months I have lost 73 lbs with my lap-band. The statistics show that those who choose RNY loose more weight FASTER, but at 5 years, both RNY and Lap-Band patients have lost about the same % of weight. It deffinately IS possible to loose 100 lbs with the band! I suggest you checkout the Lap Band forum, you'll get TONS of great info there. My first fill was actually about 3 months after my surgery. Typically the minimum is AT LEAST 6 weeks for healing time. My insurance covers my fills, but you should check with your insurance company to see what they say. The cost for a fill (from what I've heard) if your insurance doesn't cover them can vary greatly! I've heard from $100 and up, however, some surgeons include fills in the price of the surgery, for the first year. Good luck on making your decision! ~Melissa 286/250/177/143 highest/surgery/now/goal

How do you get to the lap band forum. Other people mention it but I don't know where to get exclusive lap band people Thanks! Martie from PA

Just look at the top of your screen, where it shows the little 'tab' section: Home My OH Photos People Forums Support Groups Events Magazine Store Click on Forums and go down to Lap Band ~Melissa

Brenda, My "biggest loser" with the band has lost nearly 200 lbs so it is certainly possible. I bet we have had 150 or more patients who have lost 100 lbs. The thing to remember is that the band is a tool - it is as powerful as the user is knowledgable about how to use their tool. If you do it right you WILL lose it. Good luck, Dr. C Cincinnati, Ohio www.TheBandDoctor.com 877.442.BAND DISCLAIMER: I am not your surgeon, any comments made by me are not meant to be taken as medical advice, just general guidelines. Contact your surgeon about your specific problem!