LAP-BAND regrets???

I am pre-op for the band and I have been doing research on it since I heard about the band a year ago. I am very excited with the results I have seen, heard about, and researched. One thing I just ordered is a book called: Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding by Jessie H Ahroni. I hear from the lap-band forum that it is very informative and helps to cope with the changes post-op. ~Alyssa

Elizabeth, Depends on the day! LOL Seriously, I love my band and highly recommend it as a tool to weight loss. However, it does take work. You do have to watch what you eat and be diligent with the aftercare. I certainly have not been perfect with mine but the good news is that you can always start right back up with a good fill and following the lapband rules. Best wishes on your journey, Beth(Love your name, btw!!!)

Hi Elizabeth..(my first name is Elizabeth) I had lap-band almost nine months ago, I'm down 62 pounds and am in the best shape/health of my adult life. I will tell you that it most definately IS NOT the easy way out though. I have had to work for every pound I've lost. I monitor how much I eat, what I eat and I work out ALOT. I've had to nurse injuries due to my workouts and at only 2.2 cc's of saline in a 4 cc band.....the .2 seems to be a little too much. It's wonderful having the band.....but also very important to understand that it takes work, paying attention to how you feel, exercising, and even perhaps having slight unfills if necessary.....which may be what I have to do. You must be willing to see your surgeon when you need to while at the same time making sure he's on YOUR schedule and not you on his/hers. By that I mean....YOU decide when you need a fill and how much of one according to how you feel. Some surgeons are extremely controlling and can cause the patient to let them dictate what will and will not be tolerated. With the band.....that won't work. A band patient must be in touch with how they feel internally and be able to communicate that to the surgeon. I love my band, glad I did it and would do it again. Just wish my insurance company felt the same way! Best Wishes Kay AKA: Miss Losin' Lot's