New here.. Have a ???
Hi I am new to the boards and still trying to decied which surgery to do. I just took the first step and filled out the form on DR. Harringtons site, He has been recommended to me by my doctor. My ? is how do they determine if you need open surgery or if it can be done by the scope. Any opinions or advice or sources that you think might help would be very welcomed. This can be very confusing and it is a big step so I want to make the right choice. Thanks
Welcome and relax talking to your Dr. At your first appointment the 2 of u will be able to tell what you need. He is the one with the experience and you want to loose weight so both of you can start together for the best choice . This is a great site keep in touch with others just like you and I elaine
first of all, it's up to your surgeon.
but having said that - it depends on your size, shape and whether or not you've had a lot of scar tissue.
i needed open surgery because i had a hernia. but, even if i didn't have that hernia, i may have needed open because i carry all of my weight in my stomach - which makes it very difficult for the scopes to reach where they need to reach - AND i've had multiple abdominal surgeries, and my entire stomach is pretty much scar tissue at this point.
generally, your doctor will try to do it lap.. but if s/he encounters issues with it, they have the option to convert to open.
the open surgery isn't nearly as scary as one might think. it isn't as easy as lap, that's for sure.. but it doesn't hurt THAT bad. 
the worst part is about a week later when all the staples start healing.. and then itching. the itching drove me mad!
good luck!
kristen
the worst part is about a week later when all the staples start healing.. and then itching. the itching drove me mad!
good luck!
kristen 
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