Why is there so much negativity on this site?

I have had a very positive attitude about the whole process. I have been doing well so far, but it seems like there is nothing but complaints and revisions with the lapband.  It seems like there is nothing but problems reported. I am trying to stay positive but it is very hard when I read many of the posts. Is anyone out there actually happy with the lapband?  

I'm very happy with my band. As I approach my 4th bandiversary, I can say honestly that I've never had a moment of regret. Not to say my journey has been trouble-free, but my band and I get along just fine.

As for the negativity...I think there are several factors that contribute to that.

1. People tend to post more often when they have a lot of questions and/or are struggling, so they need more support.

2. People tend to post less often when they're doing fine. We're not hearing much from the successful bandsters who have lost weight and gone on to do other important and exciting things, like new jobs, new babies, new hobbies, etc.

3. People who have been disappointed by their band and revised to a different WLS procedure are eager to "educate" newbies about the potential risk and complications of the WLs that didn't work for them.

Jean

I'm almost 5 months post-op, and so far, I'm extremely happy with my band.  As Jean stated, I have good days and bad, but because of my band, I'm making better choices and eating less food.

While not a fan of the band bashing nonsense, it is good to hear about the struggles others post.  For me, it's a constant reminder to follow all the rules and re-commit each day.

So far, I'm down approx 71lbs and half way to my goal of 190lbs, and I couldn't be happier!!! 
~ Barbara 

Count me as one of the "happy" ones.   My band and I get along most of the time.  When I do have issues, it's usually thoughtlessness on my part.

While there are certainly things that can go wrong with the band, that is true of any WLS.. and it can be for no apparent reason or it can be something that the patient did or didn't do.

As my husband often tells me.. don't go looking for trouble (sometimes he's so irritatingly right..lol).  If the negative posts are worrisome to you, try not to read them.  Easier said than done I know.

I am happy with my band.  This is the tool I chose.  People are sometimes grippers.  It's their way of expressing themselves.  Not necessarily and upbuilding thing but it happens.  I just keep doing my own thing and don't get into the mix.
Z

I am thrilled with my band. I thank God daily for helping me get this wonderful tool. I know there are things that can go wrong, but I have read of horrible complications from other surgeries, too. The band is tricky so I think that is part of what causes the problems later rather than sooner. I agree with Jean that the people who are having trouble post because they need help, are frustrated, need support, etc. On the other hand I know for myself that I am not on this site nearly as much as I was a year ago. Not only do I not take time to get on OH, sometimes I just read and not post. That is to my shame, but there are many, many who were on here when I started that we don't see now. They haven't had problems, just get busy with their new lives.

I am like you in that I sometimes get worried that all these problems will happen to me, too. Then I think about all the others and decide to expect the best. I am a success but it will take a lifetime vigilence to continue to be so.
Sue

There is a large number of people adversely affected by the band. It doesn't mean YOU will be one of them and you should continue being positive about your experience.

It's important to KNOW about the negative consequences, but don't think that just because people are talking about them that it is inevitable that you'll have the same.

Good luck to you.
I'm glad you're doing well.

N.M. you really are one of the nicest people on this board.

Hugs, Kate

Well, what a nice compliment, thank you!

I will arm wrestle you for the title! 

Kate's right. I was just going to say the same thing and then I scrolled down. Kate beat me to it. I am sorry you have had such a horrible time with your band, and to be graceful about other people's efforts is very human and very very nice....This is how it should be done....
  You Rock......


KUDOS
Petra