Band or Bypass?

I went for my 1st NUT visit and my upper GI test yesterday.  I have some other tests scheduled next week.   At the 1st NUT visit we discussed my diabetes and how my body has become so intolerant to the insulin and other medication that I take for it.   I have not talked to the Dr. yet, but the NUT said that the success rate for getting over the diabetis was greater with the full bypass than with the band.  She did not say the band and loosing weight would not help me, but she said that the success rate was just better with the full monty.   It was something that I should discuss with the Dr.    Has anybody had any experience with this or discussions with your Dr's about one vs the other?  It would help to have some real life experiences to help me make my decision.  I know my visit to my Dr.  will help me make my final decision, but I would like to know what you think.

I too am a diabetic I am seeing a doctor at Vandy. He told me that it was my choice and to do what I feel more comfortable with. You do have greater chances of losing the diabetes with the gastric but if you feel that the band is safer that's the best bet for you. The band does take care of the  diabetes for some people. I have just heard so many good results for some people. Do what feels good for you.

i've been out of pocket.  Thanks for the response.  I am leaning twoards the RNY.  Thanks

Hi Cathy, I had my band almost a year ago. I have lost 145 total with 103 of that being since surgery. I have come completly off my Diabetes meds and have been off of them since Feb of this year. I am real close to being off of my blood pressure meds. So that is my 2 cents......lol

You have to decide for you. Yes your doctor can give his input, but it has to be your decision. Talk to folks, go to the support group meetings, research the internet, go to all the seminars at different hospitals, you will get all kinds of input, but in the end, it is Cathy's decision. Hope this helps maybe just a little bit. Good luck on your journey and keep us posted on your progress.

Cheryl

I've been out of pocket.  Thanks for the input.  I am really having to think this through.  I will have to discuss with the Dr.  I just wanted to know what you all thought.  Thanks for your response.

Hi Cathy,
You will find that band vs RNY is a touchy subject on some parts of obesity help.com.  It is a very personal decision.  The national statistics show that people who have the band lose an average of 30% of what they are overweight, with people who have RNY losing an average of 70% of what they are overweight.  Both surgeries carry risks, and the overall cost of both is similiar.  For me, I had about 170 pounds to lose, and 30% of that just wasn't enough.  I was self pay and I felt like I needed more bang for my buck.  Like I have said before, research, research, research, then make a decision!
Marilyn

Thanks!  I am leaning twoards the RNY.  I am too old to find out that the band didn't do it for me. I have got to get control of my sugars or it will kill me before anything else gets a chance.     

Only you can make the ultimate decision as to which is the better choice for you. Your doctor can give you all of the information about the procedures but ultimately you have to decide which post-op lifestyle fits you.

Personally, I chose the RNY because I know me and I know that I would have eaten around the band. Also, being 51 when I had surgery, I needed the faster weight loss because my health was going down quickly.

I am leaning twoard your way of thinking.  I too am old (56) and I need to get my diabetis under control.  Thanks.  

Hi Cathy, also realize, that each persons body reacts to the different surgeries like Marilyn said, It's our chemistries! Also make your decission on what you are satisfied with, Just know that we are here for ya. Barb