Question:
My doctor is wanting to do the lap band technique. What are

People's experiences with this? What is the rate of weight loss? How much physical help is needed post-op ? Are you hungry ? Did you have to have it "tightened" ? what was that like? Did you have to go back for the more common surgery?    — Mary W. (posted on January 23, 2003)

January 23, 2003
Hi, I hate to see a question go unanswered. However, I am no expert, but I do know that there is a group at Yahoo called the Bandsters. Just go to yahoo page and look under groups or do a search and you will find it. They all had all kinds of banding. You might want go there and ask this question. I'm sure you would get a lot more answers; however, I don't know how honest because they all have the band but just ask for honest answers and you should get them pros and cons. My doctor told me I would be a good candidate also but did not want to endure the required maintenance of getting a fill every month with the (AGB). So I am opting for the RNY and waiting unpatiently...lol for approval. Good luck!
   — April N.

January 23, 2003
I almost got the band but finally decided on the RNY. Overall loss isnt generally as good as the RNY, according to my surgeon. 55% on average, RNY is around 80% Fiils most get 3 or 4 in first year and then perhap one or two occasionally after that. Band does not have malabsorbtion or dumping. High calorie liquids are band friendly. I loved milkshakes pre op So I decided on the RNY and am very happy. I think sweet eaters will have a more difficult time loosing with the band. You will HAVE to be very motivated.
   — bob-haller

January 23, 2003
The tight VBG band restricts the abilty to eat good foods like meats. While high calorie liquids go down easy. Whats this banded gastric bypass? I thing the VBG is a opbsolete surgery and my sirgeon says its 5 year failuree rate is 80%
   — bob-haller

January 23, 2003
I have had the band for 10 months, no problems, no complications, and only two fills. I do not think I will need another fill (virtually painless) for quite some time, as I am 15 lbs. from my goal and have lost 87 lbs. I returned to work 4 days after surgery. I LOVE IT!!!
   — Linda H.

January 24, 2003
I'll try to answer all your questions, I've had the AGB since Sept 30th. I've lost 34 pounds so far. I was up and around and out of the hospital the next day and back at work in a week. The only time I've really been hungry was the first week after surgery when you are only allowed liquids, every one is different on how often they have a fill (get tightened) I had my first fill at 3 1/2 months, I know a lady that lost weight contineously for a year without haveing one. Please feel free to write me and ask me more.
   — Genn2973

January 25, 2003
Click on my profile and go to my website. There's so much info there about my great lap band experience!
   — M. B.