Do you think RYN is better than Lap Curious..

Hey there Dr. Curry... I believe you and I are only disagreeing on one point..I still say that surgery is a risk no matter what. But I totally agree with what you say about choosing a center, surgeon, etc. on his or her performance record as well as outcomes. You and I have both spoken about this in the past and agreed there are organizations out there that try to make this look like cake walk..I just want anyone who is searching to realize this is surgery and with surgery comes risk..though there may be a difference, it's still very real. But you are the surgeon so I certainly can't argue with you on a scientific opinion nor would I even try.. I never meant surgery is surgery as in no big deal which one you choose..I believe your surgery should fit your lifestyle...it should be for the long haul not just because an advertisment states it's the safest--whether you have lapband or RNY this takes hard work and dedication, lifestyle changes and a positive attitude..often times it even takes counseling, etc..this is more than just surgery..that is why surgeons such as yourself and Dr. Rodriguez, are involved in a center like Deaconess.. as well as others in the area who are medical directors are obviously dedicated in their field to make sure patients have the right training, education and post op care...I think you get my drift. I have known you awhile, I have always respected your skills, opinions and your way with patients...but there are other centers in the area who make this look very easy and simple,as their advertisment states.. yet they give little education on risk, before and after care. I have spoken to so many patients who are surprised to find out what it takes to work their tool, then maintain after the weight loss. We read it daily across the OH boards. and I know for a fact many surgeons I know are now taking care of patients who had surgeries before the era of dieticians, psychologist, etc..etc...many of the folks are struggling with things like vitamin deficiencies as well as weight gain.. You and I have spoken on several occasions..I am sure you know where I am coming from. As always I enjoy seeing rebuttals and opinions of anyone who is involved in this field..I believe the folks reading these post need to hear everything from all sides..and to be honest I always enjoy a little disagreement..lol thanks for the comments. Brenda

No question in my mind that RYN is the better choice (at least for me.) In the first 5 weeks post surgery I have lost 50 lbs. And feel terrific. My new stomach is about the size of a shot glass and I am NEVER hungry. Since I eat six times a day I get plenty of "head time" with food. At this stage I am allowed to eat anything except fresh fruit (other than bananas) and fresh vegetables. They are only allowed after healing is complete at about the 8 week mark. I went in at over 400 pounds and have had no complications. The surgery was done laparascopically. My very good friend who had the lapband procedure has to go in regularly for "fills" which require injections and problems afterwards if it hasn't been adjusted exactly correctly. One more thing. My surgery was done at OSU by Dr. Needleman (he's done over 1,500 RNY's!) There is a unit in the OSU hospital that ONLY has bariatric patients so the staff there is very experienced and everything runs like clockwork.

I think I know you from the classes at OSU. You sat in on some of ours and when I was at Dr. Needleman's office you came over to me and said I would really like him. Do you remember me? I am so glad your surgery went well. Mine is May 30th.

Nikki, there are a lot of thigns so consider when making your final choice. First, what is best for your body. Second, what you want in the long term, I had the RNY for myself. Third, this of course shouldn't be a factor but it can be, what and if your insurance will pay for. Personally, I think its a decision you, your family and of course your doctor should make. I wasnt a canidate for the lap band and to be honest my insurance wouldnt cover it anyway. So that was a factor for me. I am very happy with my choice of surgeries, as well as the doctor, that I used and his staff. Everything is a factor, follow your gutt and heart..... Pam 314/124

Nikki: Good luck on your choice. As a bariatric surgeon who has performed over 1,200 weight loss operations, the right operation for you is the one YOU choose after you have all your information. I strongly recommend you go to a true WLS porgram that has an education program that talks about the operations, has you meet 1-on-1 with a bariatric registered dietitian, then let's you sit down and talk with a bariatric surgeon who does more than just 1 or 2 operations. OH and the internet is helpful, but the real, truthful, meaningful information you will get that will make sense to help you comes from a real bariatric surgery center. A bariatric surgery center has a surgeon, a nurse practitioner, a specialized bariatric registered dietitian and offers more tha just one WLS. All designed to give you the truth, not sell you a product. The Lap Band and the Bypass are 2 very different operations with very different results and they work differently. One is not safe than the other in the hands of an experienced bariatric surgeon. That means a surgeon who does both the LapBand and the Bypass in their practice. But the most important decision you can make is which center to go to. The center that empowers you with the most information, is the one that will help you the most. Knowledge is power! Find programs that sponsor of have support group. there you will find folks who have had both operaitons and you can compare notes. Visit www.newyourealyou.com for good information and for an invitation to come to one of our education sessions. it is time well spent. Good luck & good health.