3-year Statistics for WLS?

I was going over my original packet of info from my surgeon about the two different WLS I was considering at the time (lap-band and RNY) and saw a little blurb that claims after 3 years out, on average, for lap-band patients they have lost 39% of excess body weight for RNY patients they have lost 63% of excess body weight. These  numbers seem a little disappointing, so I'm wondering if anyone knows where these numbers come from, or have a link to a more definitive survey. I knew lap-band had worse short-term performance than RNY, but I didn't think it was this low. I'm not worried for myself, because I'm in the groove and I'm sure I'm going to get to 100%. But even for RNY, I would have thought it would be a bit higher. Does this number include the "bounce back" that some RNY patients experience after about 2 years? Any thoughts?

Hey Rob, In preparing to make my decision for Lap Band vs RNY, I have ordered and read several books.  One, called Lap Band Companion, was published mid 2007.  It listed the 3 year US LB loss average at ~57% as I recall.  Oddly enough, Europe and South America was about 5% higher.  Probably has to do with the damn fast food restuarant availability. The Long term data both operations were just about equal.  I will post later with the exact numbers. Guy

What my surgen has said about this is that those people who make the lifestyle change, i.e. diet and exercise beat those odds. Those people that expect the WLS  to be the do all end all of their weight problems gain back much of the weight. The statistics seem to indicate that the "average" WLS patient is unwilling to make the long term life style changes necessary to maintain a more significant weight reduction. The stats also show that the procedures we have had done are a treatment of the symptoms and not a cure.  I think too many of us think of the surgery as an easy out cure, which it is not. What it is, at least for me, is one last opportunity to get it right, to loose the weight. Now its up to me to keep it off using conventional means such as diet and exercise.  I feel and look great. I have gained a self-confidence I never thought I would have. My mental attitude has improved significantly. I pray frequently for the will and strength to maintain this new life I have started. I get worried at times because the old me lurks in the shadows.

Hey there, Rob! I agree with other posters.... I have lost 100% of my excess weight, and have kept it off!  (January 4 is my 4-year anniversary).  My friend had the Lap-Band, and she has lost about 80% of her excess weight!  And she is STILL losing! So, I say go with YOURSELF and YOUR BODY - and never look at those statistics as being relevant to how you will do!  NO ONE knows your body better than you do!  And, from what I can see from your posts, you seem like someone who is highly motivated and determined!  So, go for it! :) - Mike

I'm sure the numbers reflect average weight at 3 years (regardless of "bounce back").  The numbers are low because many people are not as successful, although 40% is a fairly significant weight loss.  Many people don't change their life style with the opportunity, and many try to get back into a "life style" that causes their weight to bounce back.  My own feeling is that RNY statistics could improve significantly with more education.  I would love to see statistics by age groups. DE Rob

Not only age groups but male verses female. I bet that would be interesting. pan head