I am considering lap banding in the near future - I am looking for feedback from those who have already undergone this procedure. Any advice? Regrets? Tips? Recommendations? Thanks, in advance for your help. Rachel

Rachel -

My best advice is to read on this board. You will find descriptions of "real life" experiences that will help you to understand the pros and cons of banding. It is a life changing experience. I am 100% happy with mine though... I'm not going to say it's not rough sometimes, but in a life where I couldn't lose and keep the weight off, I'm now at my lowest weight in 13 years. I don't know any other way that would have happened without the band. Also, research your doctor well and pick a good one. Attend the seminars that your doctor should host. You will get a lot of info from that as well. Good luck in your search!

Kim

Hi Rachel,

Welcome to LapBandTalk. The best advise I can give you is to do your research. Look into your insurance plan, look into surgeons, find success and complication rates, be realistic with your expectations and with your ability to comply with the band rules. A lap band isn't a magical solution - it IS an amazing tool which, if used correctly, will help you to achieve your weight loss goals and to maintain them.

This site, LapBandTalk, was an excellent source for me when I was still considering the band, so spend a few hours - or weeks as in my case! lol - and read as much as you can to see how successful people are and to find out how much effort is involved. Do yourself a favor and don't spend TOO much time in the 'complications' forum. It's a good idea to know what kinds of complications can occur, but if you spend too much time in that forum you will totally freak yourself out - at least I did! When looking at the complications, remember that most U.S. surgeons have an approximately 1 - 3% rate of complications (of course you should still find out about the surgeon you select specifically). Its a little scary but you should also remember that that means 97 - 99% of lap band patients have no complications. Those are pretty good odds but only if you're a gambler. See what I mean?

Good luck on your weight loss journey, whatever you decide to do.

Welcome and good luck with your decision! I agree with the previous posters, do your research. Start by reading some of the messages on this board.

No regrets, Shawn