Hi gals and guys,

So I just got home from the bariatric surgery seminar and I'm torn. When I initially made the decision to undergo WLS I was 90% certain that lap band was the way I wanted to go. Hard work(which I'm committed to doing) but more importantly, less risk. However, when I talked to the doctors after the seminar and told them the choice I was leaning towards- he left me with these words "I'm taking out more bands than putting them in". So naturally I left more confused as to what I need/want and am now thinking about the sleeve. Any thoughts??

And just a bit o history about me, 29, don't have children (yet) I'm 5'3 and I weigh 231 ish.

I need series feedback... Please:)...

It's an extremely personal decision and I don't believe there is a right or wrong answer. I think the key is to research all the facts and make an informed decision based on your research.

As for myself, I originally was scheduled for Gastric Bypass. At the last minute I canceled the surgery because I just couldn't justify re-routing my intestines. I did consider the Sleeve too, but I couldn't justify cutting out 3/4 of my stomach either. To me, the Lap Band seemed like the most logical starting point because it didn't permanently change my internal organs. Plus, I didn't want to deal with malabsorption or dumping, either.

I have lost 200 pounds in the 15 months since I got my Lap Band. Honestly, it's the best decision I've ever made for myself. I'm happier and healthier than I've ever been in my adult life.

Just remember as you do your research, none of the weight loss surgeries are going to make you magically lose weight. The work will always be yours to do. The key is figuring out which best suits you and your lifestyle.

Best wishes.

Who is the doctor and what city?

I would imagine that if he tells all his patients he takes more out than he puts in, of course the ratio is a self fullfilling prophecy. Why would any patient want the band if their doctor is against them? If he put in 200 and is taking out 30 but telling all his new patients not to get one, of course the ratio would be more out than in? And maybe he doesn't know how to put them in properly or doesn't want to offer the follow-up? I know I would have changed docs if that were the case.

Docs make more than twice the money for other WLS surgeries. I'd be skeptical and get a 2nd or 3rd opinion?

tmf

Thanks for the input. I am definitely going to do research and a lot of thinking before I make my final decision.

I've had my band almost 3 years now and did great the first 15-18 months, lost 90 lb. I now have achalasia, gastroparesis and other GI tract issues. I know many others who have had similar issues...motility problems are becoming the primary late term complication.

Pay attention to the long term complications. Short term complications are lower with the band, but unfortunately many of us vets are experiencing life altering complications requiring further surgeries, tests, etc .2-5 years out.

The band also may not be for you if you're looking to lose 100% EW. The average is 50-60% EWL.

Whatever you decide, best of luck to you!

My doc also didn't recommend the band. You know why? He said 'its a lot more work than the other WLS surgeries'. He wasn't against it for any other complication issue or anything like that. He said quite a few people just don't realize it's not a miracle weight loss cure. Fortunately I knew what I was in for and charged full steam ahead! And if something goes wrong down the line, fine, I can't say I wasn't warned. And that's ok. I made the decision so I'm willing to deal with whatever issues/complications may (or may not) come. It's definitely a personal choice! :-)

your dr. says he takes more out than he puts in, Hmmmm. How many people would have the sleeve or the the bypass undone if they could? We don't hear about reversals on these other surgerys because it's not that simple, IDK and this is an individual decision, but I like to have the option. good luck!

your dr. says he takes more out than he puts in' date=' Hmmmm. How many people would have the sleeve or the the bypass undone if they could? We don't hear about reversals on these other surgerys because it's not that simple, IDK and this is an individual decision, but I like to have the option. good luck![/quote']

Love it. You can't 'undo' those, can you?

Hello everyone,

I too went to a seminar and was told that with the sleeve you can reverse the procedure. Because it can be reattached. I am thinking about getting the band I also was looking into the sleeve. I did look at the down time which with the band you go home the same day and the sleeve you stay for 3 days. Do your research and decide what's best for you