15 years old- thinking about getting Lap Band. Advice? Help? Anything?

Hey, I'm Meghan and I'm 15 years old. I am really thinking about getting the Lap Band. I haven't begun the process of talking to surgeons or anything yet, I'm just thinking about it. My mom had a bypass surgery abotu 2 years ago and she mentioned to me that I might want to get the Lap Band. I was just wondering if there were any teens out there who could offer some advice, or talk about how things went after your surgeries or whatever. I just want to talk to some people who've already had it and learn more about the aftermath of the surgery before I get it.

Hey Meghan!  My name's Ashlee. I'm 17, and I had Lap RNY Bypass, not the Lap-Band. Once you start talking with surgeons, they'll advise you on the best choice for you, personally. Myself, I'm not too big on the Lap-Band for a few reasons, but a lot depends on your weight, BMI, and health history. It's all up to the surgeon, really, and what he/she thinks will be the best fit for you. The immediate aftermath of the surgery is, of course, pain. Duh, it's surgery. lol. After that, though, you really have to adjust to the fact that you can't eat like you once did. A lot of foods are off limits for a looong time, and it can be kinda hard to watch your friends gorge themselves on Doritos and Mountain Dew while you're stuck with a protein drink! Don't let the food aspect discourage you, though. Once you start losing weight, it ALL becomes worth it. Especially when people do the whole "Oh you look so good!" Haha. That's the best part. And it makes anything you go through to get there worth it.

Oh, thank you for your help! It sure took long enough for anyone to reply. lol. I'm not exactly looking forward to having to give up some of my favorite foods, but like you said, it'll be worth it to finally have my weight problem gone. Thank you!

Hey Meghan! My cousin got the lap-band last year, she was 15 when she got it. LIke you,  she was worried abt been so young. bUt ends up that she is extremely happy. Her doctor is from Mexico though and I remember when I came to DR appt with her, he showed  us a bunch of pics from young guys and girls who had had the surgery and had lost a lot of weight. so do not be alarmed you are not the only one who will or has gone through this at this age! I, myself , Im thinking abt getting lap band now! Good luck to you! let me know if you have any questions. ciao

Hi!  I'll be getting banded soon, and here is my reason why I chose the band. I believe that I'm too young to have a bypass surgery done, and so does my surgeon. There ya go! lol It's that simple. Good luck with whatever path you choose!

Hi Meghan! My name is Lynn. When I began to meet with surgeons and seriously research all surgical options, I was 18 years old. By January of 2007, I was 19 years old and had Laparoscopic Duodenal Switch. Since my surgery, 5.5 months ago, I've lost 86 pounds. My advice to you is that you research EVERY option. This is a life-changing life-long choice and you need to be sure that you make the right choice for YOU. Good luck to you & feel free to ask me any questions.