Bypass or Lapband?? How did you pick? Would love advice!

Hi Robyn!

I was in the same situation as Trinksie.  I did not even want to hear about the gastric bypass i only wanted the band. but the more information i got and went to the seminars i ultimately had RNY gastric bypass.  I am glad i did!  I am down 95 lbs in 7 months and have not had any complications so far. I feel great.  Either way the key is to inform yourself as much as possible so you can make an informed decision.

GOOD LUCK!

As others said it is a personal decision; I decided on RNY because I needed the strict rules that came with it, if given the opportunity to eat sweets (as you can with lap band) I would.  Also I really wanted the fast results from the RNY.  What really impacted my decision was that the thought of having something foreign in my body was to wierd for me. 

A women I work with had the lap band 6 months after my RNY, for her, she wanted to be able to "cheat" a little, and she said she could not handle the "rearranging of her insides".

So, think about whichever works for you and talk to lots of people before making your decision. I am thrilled with the RNY and have no regrets!
Good luck!

I just wanted to add a good word for the band since so many here are RNY people.  I got the band about 9 mos ago and have lost 55 lbs.  Granted, you don't melt away the way you would with by-pass but also I can get my nutritional needs from the foods I eat - which is pretty much anything, except rice (for me).  I don't need to be Twiggy and I know that I will eventually get to my goal (about another 45 lbs) and I am not in a race so if it takes me 1-2 years, that's okay.  I love the band and am happy with the decision. Good luck whatever way you go!

Keep researching and talking to people until you are sure; it is a life changing decision and a risk.   I chose RNY over lap band primarily because I did not want to be committed to numerous doctor's appointments for fills and adjustments.  So far, I am VERY happy.  I had no complications and no problems.  I seem to be able to eat anything, although I have limited myself to small tastes and portions of sweet or fatty foods.  What makes me nervous is wondering about long term or not yet known side effects. (read melting mama's blog - she has a lot of information on problems)  I don't think you need to worry too much about dying during the surgery.  They have really perfected doing the laproscopic RNY, and for most people it is an easy, relatively painless surgery and quick recovery.   Whatever you decide, chosse a surgeon that has a lot of experience.  My personal advise would be go with the RNY - the weight loss is quicker!  Good luck!