Questions about Lap Band

I was wondering if any one can answer a few questions for me. I was wondering about lap band. Up untill now, I was sure I was going to have gastric bypass. Now a friend of mine had the lap band and I'm wondering about it. Does it work as well as gastric bypass? Is the eating different between the two? I know you have the dumping with gastric, is it the same with lap band or is your diet broader (like eating sugar, fat, ect.) I know it's less invasive because it doesn't cut anything, but is the salene safe? Is there a chance of the band breaking (salene leaking out)? Are the results of weight loss and keeping it off high. If anyone can help me with any or all of my questions I would appreciate it. Oh, does the ins. cover it just the same? Or is it harder, easier for approvel? Sorry for so many questions but if I can get help anywhere I know it's here. Thanks again!

Kim, I am a huge fan of the band, in most patients you can achieve very similar results to that of a bypass. Almost all of the recent studies support very similar 5 yr weight loss between band and bypass. The band is so much less risk I just think it's a great option. Insurance issues are mostly the same as they are for RNY unless you have Aetna, Cigna, or Highmark - they generally don't cover the band around here. Good luck! Dr. C

There is a great lap band forum here on the boards, that have a wealth of knowledge on them. I too thought that RNY was the best for me, only to ultimately decide on lapband. My main reason was that I realized that complications don't just happen to other people. I was banded on 2-13-06, and I am down 32 lbs, without my first fill in place. The band is not like the RNY in the fact that it isn't the "food police" You don't dump with the band, you eat a healthy diet consisting of protein, lean meats, vegtables and simple carbohydrates. What is great about the band, is that there is no window of opportunity. Weight loss can be obtained for as long as you need it to be. Also, if weight loss stalls, you simply have another fill, not an option with other surgeries. (Hospital stay is less than 24 hours.) Best of luck!! Theresa 333/301/under 200