I have been considering lap band for about 2 years but have seriously considered it for about a month so I have made a consultation with a surgeon. Can anyone who has experienced this procedure offer information, considerations, warnings etc that I may not be informed of from the surgeon or in my own research. Thanks!!!

It is the best thing I have ever done for myself! It requires determination and committment to change your lifestyle and relationship with food...but now every bite of food I take is enjoyed to the fullest. Good luck!

After losing and regaining the same 20 pounds about a dozen times, I finally decided it was time to take a firmer stand against my excess weight. Band surgery was a big step, but it was the best thing I've ever done for myself. I was ready for the life changes required to be successful, and I'm amazed and very pleased with my results so far. My only regret about having had the surgery was that I waited so long to do it.

Good luck with your choice!

Dave

You asked for advice, so here goes....the band is a tool. You must still manage what you eat and your exercise level. Therefore, when you get banded, you have to make a lifestyle commitment. The band helps me to identify when I am satisfied but it doesn't stop me from eating, I have to do that myself. The biggest advantage for me is that I am much more self aware and on the alert from signs of satisfaction - and they occur with lovely small portions.

The other piece of advice I would offer is that you shouldn't try and do this on your own. I need at least a small circle of strong support. I get this from my husband and younger son and, from a lesser extent, my mother and one very close friend. They support me in making better food choices, avoiding temptation, and staying active.

Good luck with whatever decision you make.

SageTracy is right on the money. Many people think of this as the magic bullet that will fix their weight problem. But it can't do it on it's own. It needs your help. You need to ask yourself- Can I make a commitment to eat healthier and excercise? If either of these answers is no, then the band may not be right for you at this time. You definately need to get into that mindset.

Have you gone to any seminars? Attending one or finding an online seminar may help your decision.

Not to be rude, but this whole site is full of people giving first-hand accounts of information, warnings, etc. The best thing to do is read, read, read the posts! You'll learn a TON.

What sagetracy said. What I realized is that you need to be 100% ready to change things. If I hadn't been ready thus would not be working. As has been said the band is a tool and you need to work it. Diet and exercise. It is not gonna lose the weight for you. Read the forums and you'll see