LAP BANDER HERE

So I was wondering what is the difference between the REALIZE band and the LAPBAND? I am almost 5 years post op lap band. My starting weight was 251 and I am sitting around 149 now for two years! YAHOO! Just curious? I AM FINALLY having my first year in a BIKINI! Keep up the work bandsters!

I may be wrong but I don't think there is any major difference, just one has been on the market longer.

The only difference between the 2 bands is the manufacturer, the way the pillow (that gets inflated with saline) the lap band has pouches and the realize band is one continual pouch, also the size of the port is different, the height of the realize band is lower than the lap band and also the lap band is kept in place with stiches where as the realize band is kept in place with metal clamps. Those are the only difference that I am aware of. Hope that helps.

http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/realize-band/Battle-of-the -Bands-New-Products-in-Adjustable-Gastric-Banding.html

There is alot of great information there on the differences in the bands.

You've had great success with yours. Congratulations! :)

joychaser... your posts have intrigued me.  I have my band surgery in 24 days now...  You have done fantastic.  I would love to read your story... or converse on hard time and tips that worked for you.  I am starting out at 245.  I am only 4'11'' tall so my knees are killing me.  how long did it take you to reach goal?  what part of the journey was the most difficult struggles for you...  are you still struggling 5 years out?    Would you be willing to dialogue with me about this new life I'm beginning.  .... oh and btw... I am also almost 55 so I don't know if that is going to hinder me or not.
thanks for listening... hope to hear from you soon.

Hi there and congrats on your new journey! I would love to share! I have lost over 100 pounds and quite honestly it was the BEST decision I have ever made. Mind you...I stayed on course and followed the rules and I know many people who cheat the system. I was not going to come this far only to fail once again. I reached goal in slightly under two years and I have weighed the same give or take for 3 now. YOU CAN AND WILL DO IT but like quitting smoking you have to be ready. I was ready.
I am not struggling 5 years out. I mean dont get me wrong I still have my ups and downs but it is part of life now and I have grown accustomed to it. Any questions at all EVER please feel free to ask.

As for my blogs...you might want to read when I had weightloss surgery years ago. Now that my weight is gone I tend to blog about my love life which has basically nothing to do with weight, hahah. It is real, ungaurded so I am sorry in advance if it may offend you. LOL! Best wishes and keep in touch!

Where would I find your weightloss blog?  I clicked on your profile and it said there was no such profile listed.  can you give me your old profile name for the surgery timeframe?

I sent you a friend request, just approve and I believe that will give you full access to photos and writings :)