BMI over 50--Lapband

I posted this question on the lapband forum, but I thought I'd ask here,too. Has anyone out there had the lapband surgery done with a bmi of over 50--53 to be exact. What were your experiences, and how much weight did you lose? I am fully committed to losing this weight, whatever method I go with, but I am beginning to rethink the lapband, to avoid some of the risks associated with RNY. I have been to seminars regarding both procedures, and I feel as though I can get the results needed with lapband, but I'd just need to work harder. Am I correct in my thinking, or not? I am self-pay, so insurance opininons don't effect my decision. As far as my husband goes, he wants whatever is the safest, but unfortunately, he's still of the mindset that if I REALLY applied myself, I could do it on my own, even though he admits that he has seen me 100% committed to dieting before, and it still didn't work.

Tresa, There have been plenty of people banded with a BMI over 50. Some of them probably have lost as much weight or more. However, average weight loss is a little higher with bypass than band. Averages, as you know apply to groups of people, not individuals. If you are motivated and work hard you will do great with either operation! Dr. C