Bypass VS VSG
You have a lot to chew on!! Some people are cut and dry. I would usually say many people who are under 40 years old and have 60-120 pounds to lose should go with the VSG. If it is not successful the VSG can be converted to a bypass or the DS years down the road. Above 120 pounds and over 40 years old, I would say to look at the RNY or DS. The reason being is that they have put so much pressure on their heart and kidneys they will need to lose the weight quickly for good health later in life.
I see your doctor's point too...Going with the VSG and being successful will mean you won't have to deal with the malabsorption issues. Plus if you regain (a few years down the road) you can move to the RNY or DS...If and when needed. You need to move quickly because of your weight (BMI). So maybe your doctor is right. With the VSG (in general) the people lose the weight slower...But you are straining your heart like I said (I've had 2 heart attacks so this is a big issue for me). If you decide to go with the VSG, be sure the doctor cuts the vagus nerve near your stomach. It will help with your hunger feelings. Ask your surgeon about that one.
Whatever you decide...Get it done quickly. Even at your young age there is a lot of stress on your heart. Brian
I started my search 100% convinced I wanted the bypass simply because that is what my friend had done and it worked great for him. i got a lot of first hand info from him. I then started looking into the VSG and found many happy clients. i am looking for the best bang for my buck in the beginning. i know with either that it is going to take hard work and mental toughness to succeed and i am (i think) ready for that. if i can get down to a manageable weight i know i can stay there. things are different now than they were when i didn't care that i was putting on " a few pounds here and there" there is much more at stake now and i want to be happy!!!
I don't know where you are at in your WLS but if you still are thinking and researching then I would point out. That a VSG can be turned to a DS. and a RNY cannot be altered that I know of. This would be an advantage because if the sleeve is just not enough then DS. The doctor seems to be thinking less is better and probably looked at body type and habits... I went with DS because of the success rates are much better and no dumping.... If possible go to the different support groups in town ...I went to them all ...lapband ,RNy, VSG and DS. Lapband people seem totally defeated...RNY people talked about dumping and maintaining ....VSG people were generally happy although the cheaters like lapband could defeat it ...The DS people were happy and fun and talked more like "how was your day or week and talked DS only if asked a question about it... DS/BPD has worked great for me ...no regrets!
Good Luck Friend....
