Can you tell me success storys about Lap-Band?

Hi,
I am really debating about getting the Lap-Band surgery done but just not sure how good it is?  Is it better for me to do that or just go for it and have the full gastric bypass done?  Is there anyone out there who has had lap-band and can tell me if it has been a good choice for them or not?
My sister had gastric bypass done, it was 5 yrs ago this pas Jan and she thinks it is the best thing since butter on bread.  She doesn't think I should waist my time on lap-band but is so happy I have finally decided to get something done. 
Please help me.
Beth

Hi Beth!!

I had my Lap Band surgery 11 months ago now and am down 70 lbs.  I am VERY happy with my weight loss and (so far) have not experienced any problems.

I would say it was an excellent choice for me.

Good luck!  Feel free to PM me if you have any questions!

Suzanne

Hi there. I have RNY so I am not help of giving you a story. Just thought I would suggest checking out the Lap Band forum. They would be the expert patients! LOL

Also, the surgeons in my area do both procedures. And they will go over both procedures in detail and be able to dicuss with you personally what option may be best for you.

I know my best friend is having surgery on Friday and she had them go over each procedure so she could decide what was best for her.

I had my RNY done at Barix and when I went for my initial consult I was still confused as to whether I wanted Lap Band or RNY - turned out it wasn't my choice - my weight and BMI were too high for lapband so I had to go RNY - and I don't regret one moment of it. So it depends on your surgeon, not just you. If your weight or BMI is too high it might not even be an option for you.

I think a lot depends on how much you want to lose as well - its a very personal choice. I would go on line and research as much as possible, and try to attend some support group meetings for pre-ops at a local hospital or facilitiy - both lapbanders and RNYers attend those and could probably provide a lot more insight.

The majority of this board does have RNY patients but there are some banders out here - but if you really want the low down on it I would also suggest the Lap Band forum.

Best of luck in whatever you choose!

Kathy

Thanks so much for your help!!!  I never even thought that it may not be my choice, but you are right.  I will keep researching this and try and find a support group to attend.  I will also check out the other boards like you said.
Can I ask one question  what is PM'ing someone is it like IM'ing someone and how do you do it?

Thanks,
Beth

PM means Private Message to you - it won't show up here on the boards and only you can see it.

I know there is a support group at Phoenixville hospital - don't know if that's where you plan on having your surgery - I'm not sure what day it is but if you post a thread asking I know someone will answer - or jus****ch the boards because they always post when there will be one.

You have a lot to think about -- take your time and make the decision that is right for you. And for either surgery we all go thru some similar experiences, but we also have very different ones as well.

There is a ton of free info on the internet, too. Educate yourself as much as possible before making a final decision.

Kathy

Hi!  I am waiting for lap band approval right now BUT I thought I would add my thoughts.  I was, like you, trying to decide which surgery to have.  I had a family member who loves her band and had no complications, one who had bypass with no complications, and one who had bypasss with alot of complications.    I ended up making a pro/con list for both and decided on the band from there.  My main reasons?  less complications, recovery time (I have two little boys), and honestly I like the idea of slower loss. 

You have to do what is right for YOU no matter what anyone says.  My cousin who had no problems with the bypass looked at me like I was crazy when I told her that I was going with the band...but...I have to live with it.  I love to exersize, eat fairly healthy just need portion control, and have great self confidence.   My surgeon thinks that because of that, I will do great with the band.

I would recommend going to the bander board...they are so nice.  I tend to hang there because there aren't too many banders here from my experience. 

Good luck in whatever you choose!

Thanks for all of your kind words.  I was able to log on at home and chat with some really great women last night.  They helped me so much.  I am now trying to find a doctor that in my area but I am having a hard time.  What r there titles when looking them up through insuarce?  I have Aetna  PPO? 
Thanks again for everything that you all have done so far for me!!!!!
Beth

Your best bet is to go to your PCP. Have them refer you. You will need a recommendation/referral from then anyways.