Not to make it more confusing..but I beg to differ about the comment that the band is the LEAST EFFECTIVE of the WLS. it depends on the person, and how dilligent you are. I had my Realize Band 16 months ago and am almost at goal. I would do it again. I agree that , no matter which surgery you choose, it does take work. They do the surgeries to our stomachs, not our brains. Good luck, whichever you choose. Also, your surgeon could advise you on which surgery would be the best for you.

What is the difference in the lap band and the realize band. Am looking to have revision but I want to get all my facts in order first. Had RNY in 05 and lost 100 lbs even though dr wanted me to loose 70 because I am tall and big boned. I had some problems with hip replacent a year ago and bad knee looking to have surgery. I need to get the 70 lbs back off before I can exercise and I know that is what is hurting my hip all this weight. It is hard to not gain when you are in the bed so much with pain. But I learned my lesson with the RNY it is not a magic solution and won't do it again, gain the weight after lost. Thanks

 "The two most powerful warriors are patience and time... So remember: great achievements take time, there is no overnight success."

Leo Tolstoy 

Thank you for letting me know.  I have done the research.  I have been doing the research for YEARS.  It's just this past year that I was finally able to get off my butt and  go for it.  I am a nurse.  I chose the banding with the help of my physician as the best choice for me.  I was just looking for some positive comments about it on this site.  I know they are out there but this site seems to have more negative than positive.  Nothing is a cure all for my weight.  I know I have a lot of hard work ahead of me for the rest of my life.  My sister had RNY about 9 years ago and has maintained a 140lb loss since then.  She looks good.  She has never had a single complication.  Because of my smoking history my physcian will not do a RNY for me.  I am ok with that.  Quitting smoking made dieting look easy and I know that there is a chance I might relapse so it is safer for me to do the banding.  Ideally, I would do VSG but my insurance does not cover it unless your BMI is over 50.  Mine is 46 so I am SOL there.

Thank you again for giving me something to look forward to.  I am super excited to be taking this step!

Please note what I am about to say is based on my experience, and there is no guarantee the same may happen to you.

 

I have lost over 200 pounds with my band. I have been banded over 4 years, and had no complications. I am at my personal goal, and I am happy. I don't regret a single day, and would recommend the band to anyone.

 

This procedure, like any other, isn’t a cure all. I battle everyday to stay focus. For me, I am an addict, and food is my vice.

 

I can say with 100% certainty, NONE of these operations are 100% success nor are there any that are 100% failures. You need to know that. You’ll hear pro and cons of all these operations.

 

Know band failure is possible. It is only a device. Speak to your Doctor to find out the true facts how many band failures he’s seen.

Also know failure with the band is possible - same as with any of these operations. If you don't adhere to the rules, you won't be successful.

 

Know no matter which operation you chose, I will be here for you!!

 

Good luck!!