Newbie

Hi everyone! My name is marianne and I am a complete newbie to lap band. I was authroized for bypass last year but we were sleighted to move due to military relocation so i cancelled my surgery date to wait until we arrived here in northern california. i was already scared of the entire procedure and really didn't think it would be wise to up and move half way across the country 4 weeks post op without a bariatrics center or even a pcp set up! So here I am, in northern ca and the doctor here is a total lap band guy! I had my group meeting and initial consult today and have to go back in 4 weeks with a food and exercise log as he uses this to determine if lap band will be succsesful or if actual bypass is the best choice. I am all for less invasive if it will work just as well! My only concerns are that on average people post bypass tend to lose anywhere from 80-130 pounds in the first year, it seems a lot slower and less with the band. Does anyone have any advice for me??

Hey Marianne,

I'm new to the site as well. I was banded on Feb. 13th. I never considered bypass because of the numerous risks involved. Everyone that I know that has had bypass has had serious health issues. Last week, one of those people passed away. I will always say banding is better: less invasive; less risk. I pray that you and your doctor make the right decision. If you are not comfortable with what the doctor suggests, then get another opinio. It's your body and your life!

Thank you for the response!! I am nervous but excited all the same! I am scared to death to go through the surgery and only lose 20-30 pounds because for me that is just not enough. I would still be over 200 and i am only 5' 3". i think that is my biggest fear with lap is that some people have a great experience and lose everything they want to lose while others just cannot lose the weight even with the band. have you experienced any problems with the actual weight loss??