Considering Lap Band Placement... any advice?

Dev,
Congrats on baby # 2!   I haven't been on the pregnancy board in a long time.  I may have to pop in over there and see if still "know" anyone!   Can you believe my babies are 4 and 2 now!
Amy

The reason some of us try to help people decide against the lapband is because we've gone through hell and are trying to help other avoid the same horrors.

The best way to find out what living with a lapband is like is to talk to people who have lived with one.

I had lapband surgery over 9 years ago... and have watched the same horrible things happen over and over and over. So, I HAVE to speak up or I wouldn't be able to sleep at night.

Hi, Dee!
I've not been on the board in a very long time, but I wanted to reply to your post.  I had my lapband surgery 5 years ago in February & have lost 142 pounds. I haven't had any major issues with my band & feel as if it is the best thing I've ever done. I've had weight issues since childhood & have lost 80-100 pounds in the past, only to regain it & more.  Yes, there are some sacrifices & life changes you have to make for the band to be successful, but I would do it all over again!  Best of luck to you in your considering what is best for you!

Hi. I recommend you do your research. I do like my band, but i haven't really done anything to help my band. I like that i get "full" after a little bit of food, and that i can eat one "big" meal a day and not be hungry for the rest of the day, or that my actual hunger is suppressed (however the head hunger is another issue), but i didn't exercise, i just started to change that. There are a lot of rules for the band and if you don't follow them you might not succeed in weight loss. There are some things you may need to give up in order to have an effective band, i had to give up coffee, just a cup and the area with the band swells and i'm not eating. The band will not make you lose weight, like other wls. The band only helps you lose weight, you still have to eat healthy and exercise. I gained back 30 of my 60 lost due to not realizing that and being very inactive. Its a big adjustment, as is any WLS and I wish you the best in your journey.

The band I had was not helpful and caused damage to my stomach and esophagus. I also got a hiatal hernia as well as NEVER losin weight. I had an insatiable appetite which the band did not suppress. I had revision last October and have had successful weight loss. I wish I never had the band. It is removable but not reversible.  If I had to do over I would get the sleeve or rny. I had eNt revision which was a piece of cake cAke compared to band. Most of the band people in my support group have all revised and the ones who didn't never reached goal weight. One lost 100 lbs and dOes well. 

 

 Dev pretty much nailed it with her reply.  I can't add much to it other than to tell you I was banded 3 years ago, have lost 220 lbs and have had no major problems.

Everyone has to make the choice that is right for them.  WLS is not One Size Fits All.