So I'm still waiting to get approved all my paperwork was sent on the 22nd. I'm scared though because my Insurance runs out on the 31st but then my parents are covering me.. since I'm not 26( only 22) yet I get free insurance under my parents. Its the same BCBS but it's a tad bit different but while I'm in limbo they have me two different packets one for the Lap-Band & one for the Realize band? I was looking over the paperwork and can't tell what is the difference.. and also what did you choose? Where you given a option? Why did you pick on or the other.. what is the difference?

So I'm still waiting to get approved all my paperwork was sent on the 22nd. I'm scared though because my Insurance runs out on the 31st but then my parents are covering me.. since I'm not 26( only 22) yet I get free insurance under my parents. Its the same BCBS but it's a tad bit different but while I'm in limbo they have me two different packets one for the Lap-Band & one for the Realize band? I was looking over the paperwork and can't tell what is the difference.. and also what did you choose? Where you given a option? Why did you pick on or the other.. what is the difference?

Most surgeons prefer one or the other; haven't heard of any that offer both. That being said, I think the 2 biggest differences between the two are the band sizes and construction. The Lap Band has I believe 3 band sizes available as opposed to 2; if you look at pics of the 2 bands the Realize is one smooth tube that goes around your stomach as opposed to the Lap Band, which actually has smaller 'divisions' if you will in the tubing. My dr will be using the Lap Band.

Go to both websites and look at the differences. Each one is going to be biased towards their own product of course, but you can still get the information.

The realize band has a lower profile port, but it's not stitched down (forget how it's held in place).

If your doctor is offering both.. ask him/her if they were banding a family member, which one would they use and why.

I think I recall reading somewhere that the realize band can take a bit more fluid to get the patient to the green zone.

i thought i heard that the realize band has been pulled off the market. is that true?

my surgeon said he wouldn't know which band he was going to use until he saw my stomach. i have the 10cc lapband.

My surgeon generally uses the Realize Band. I think they are both equally good.