Hello Friends I'm New

I am in the process of all the pre op testing. I am still not sure what type of WLS I want. I have considered all three; the lap band was my first choice because I figured it would be the less invasive one, but after reading tons of stuff on it  I don't think it woul be the best for me if I want to achieve life time results. I didn't think this decision would be so hard geez. My cousin had the rny last june and lost 82lbs to date so proud of her :), she advises on the rny for fast and longer results and so does the doctor I guess my fear is alterin my anatomy Im afraid of complications later in life. The Dr. also suggest rny gastric bypass, any suggestions? What helped you make the decision?

Welcome the the group Lexsan.  Figuring out which surgery is always a big question. 

I was also considering lap band when I started researching, because of the small incisions needed.  I found out that most of the procedures can be done laprascopically or with the small incisions.  I talked with my surgeon, we reviewed my health issues and decided that RNY was my best option.  Now, I am thrilled with the results, the threat of dumping stops me from indulging in trigger foods that I would had leaned on in the past to deal with stresses.

Take the time to make a list of the 'pro' and 'con' of each surgery your are considering.  Do the research and then follow the plan set up with your surgeon.  As far as complications later in life, I will take them as they come, the complications of a lifetime of morbid obesity scared me more.   I would do the wls over again if needed.  Loving that there is less of me for my body to carry about.  Busy living life instead of watching it pass on by.

Come share often, we are here for support of each other.

Hi Lexsan,

   I started out with the thought of having a lap band, but after research and soul searching I chose the RNY. I had so many health issues I needed to do something asap. Now I've lost 33# pre-op and over 140# in the 1 year since my surgery. I would do it in a flash. Off of B/P, cardiac and several other meds. It's a new and wonderful life.
     It must be your decision. It's a tough one. We are here to support you in whatever decision you make.
     Nice to meet you. Monday night chat is at 7PM Eastern, 6PM central, 5PM mountain, and 4PM pacific. Hope we will see you there.    Mag      

 I had the band 3 years ago and am now in the process of having it removed. Not to say that it doesn't work for some people, but definitely not for me. I've decided on having a revision to a DS. Now I know A LOT of people are against that surgery and those that have it, after tons of research I've decided it's the best one for me. I would suggest doing as much research as you can on all forms of WLS, talk to people on the various boards, ask lots of questions, and talk to your doctor. Only you can make the right decision, but give yourself time to do it.

Hugs,
Sukie

Hi. I got my lap-band done in May 2010. I had a lot of health issues and I was going to have gastric bypass done it would have been to dangerous for me. I started at 364 and I went down to 210 but in the passed few months I went up 57 pounds so I have to just get back on track. You just need to find what you think works for your and what you feel ok with doing. Do research and if you can talk with people who have had the sugery you have been thinking about getting. Good Luck.

Being fast shouldn't be even of remote importance when considering surgery. 

No surgery is a quick fix and none are easy. 

I don't want to scare you because this was the best decision I ever made.  But, it takes lifelong commitment to a permanent lifestyle change. 
It is a challenge at first because you are changing basically every thought and action and behavior you had of food, eating, and exercise. 
As my doctor and the program around my RNY repeated at every pre-op appt, a better chance of lifelong success will likey come to those who had decided before the surgery that they were ready to life a healthier lifestyle.

The turning point to even start the reseach on bariatric surgery was stepping on the scale one day and seeing 299 lbs.  Right then and there something clicked; I did not want to be 300 lbs.  Everyone has a different motivation and motivation is what you will need more than anything.

Good luck to you =)