Question:
If you are at least 5 years postop, let me ask you this, Have you been able keep

to keep your weight off? My doctor is against me having the surgery. He says everyone that has the surgery eventually gains it all back. What are the statistics on it?    — Judy W. (posted on October 15, 2001)

October 15, 2001
Hi Judy, you might want to check out www.duodenalswitch.com. There are medical reports dating back much more than 5 years on the statistics of long term post op success with the DS procedure. This procedure also has greater percentage of excess weight loss and better long term results. I'm sure your Dr would enjoy reading up on the latest procedure, especially since this report on the website (called the Hess report) is the actual medical report (Dr to Dr!) =) Blessings,
   — ChristiMNB

October 15, 2001
I am 7 years, post-RNY distal (very distal) and still weigh about 110#, so my 150+ remains gone. My husband is 6 yrs post and remains near his goal, as well.
   — vitalady

October 16, 2001
I just wanted to say that my sister had the surgery nearly 20 years ago!!! She looks so awesome and is totally an inspiration to me on my own journey!!! She lost 150 pounds and has kept it off!!! She really is amazing... I know she has told me of people that she knows that had the surgery and gained the weight back... but I think you will find you doctor is wrong that "most of the people gain the weight back". Do some searching on the internet and find out what the real statistics are... from what I can tell most people are successful!! Also that WLS is one of the most lasting forms of weight loss available. Sounds like you might want to find a different doctor... one with a better (more open) attitude towards WLS? Either way... good luck to you!!! Take Care!
   — GallopingAngels

October 17, 2001
Your doctor is misinformed. He's thinking about the old "stomach stapling" techniques. I opted for rny because the stats say that we lose 70% of our excess weight and 5 years after surgery, rny patients have maintained their weight....regaining only 5% of the weight they lost. I believe the stats for VBG patients are quite as impressive because they have to be more diligent about their diets after surgery. If you need a referral for wls, get ready to find a new pcp. Some docs are have their minds made up...and they won't look at wls objectively.
   — [Anonymous]