I am considering having the Adjustable Lap Band Surgery by Dr. Pedro Santiago Kuri in Tijuana. I have read that you can expect to lose 67% of the amount you are overweight. I am somewhat disappointed by that statistic and wondering if this is true and also if this is true is surgery worth the risk? Also any information from patients of Dr. Kuri would be great. :phanvan

I have read many different statistics on this, but keep in mind that they're talking about an average. Some lose more, some lose less. There are so many factors involved in success (getting proper restriction, exercise, food choices, head issues, etc.). The band doesn't do all of the work for you, but it's a huge help if you learn how to work it.

As far as whether or not it's worth the risk, only you can decide that. For me, my risk of needing a spinal fusion if I didn't lose weight was about 100%. That fact alone made my decision to get the band the easiest (and best) thing that I could have done for myself.

I am a very happy Dr Kuri patient. He is a wonderful band surgeon and a lovely man. I have seen pics of the new hospital he is working from and hear glowing reports. I had my surgery almost 10 months ago and have lost about 35 pounds (depending on the day) of a total of 78 needed to lose to meet my goal weight. I have a mini-goal of losing another 15 pounds before my one year "bandiversary" as we like to call it here on LBT. That will be 50 pounds gone in one year. Not sure what my percentages are, but run the numbers if you like.

I am a slow loser, dissappointing as it is. It takes work and effort. It's a hard as any diet in regards to the headwork and will power required by me. HOWEVER, I never had been able to do what I have accomplished so far without my band. And I'd be hopeless to do more without it.

Simply, my band stops me in my tracks. I HAVE to eat slowly and chew carefully. I AM able to eat lots less food then before, and be satisfied.

It's not what I thought it would be, but it's good. I love my band.

Just be sure you have local aftercare unless you plan to travel easily to see Kuri for fills or problems.

Good luck!