Hello...I've been lurking and am now into serious consideration for pursuing a lap-band. I'm very large (BMI 61), but thankfully just now sarting to get a few health problems, which has brought this discussion of surgery to a head. I work in health care and am not anxious to pursue RNY, but will be going to Houston for an informational seminar with Dr.Spivak's groug next week. I am interested in the Lap-Band as a less invasive, potentially safer approach. My goal is not to be thin (or even normal weight, whatever someone thinks that is) but to feel good again. I have really slowed down this past year and a half. Multiple foot fractures and back pain from the multiple walking casts! Also new onset hypertension. Both of my parents have died of diabetes and heart disease. Both were obese, although only my father was severely so. My immediate concerns are whether this is done on very large people and whether it really helps control appetite. I actually have pretty good control of what I eat and rarely binge, but when I'm hungry, I eat a big 'ol heaping plateful and then some! A secondary concern is that I do live alone and do not have an"in-house" day to day emotional and physical support person to rely on. I am blessed with really terrific and caring friends.

Hi Lois,

You've found a wonderful and supportive website of caring people who are in the same boat that you are. Just about any ?? you have, someone will have answers for.

I was banded by Dr. Spivak on 5/26/04. He's the greatest! He's very caring, explains things so well, and never rushes you. He is also an excellent laproscopic surgeon. I ended up having my gallbladder, some adhesions (internal scar tissue), and a tumor from the esophagus --- all removed during the same surgery that he installed the band. He's the best! To date, I've lost 24 lbs. and feel so much better (more energy, better self esteem).

His seminars are very, very informative and he answers all ??

Best of luck on your decision. Please keep us updated.

Hi Lois!

Welcome again!

You are definitely not out of the range of lapband BMI - however, I have heard some people who are having the surgery in the U.S. being told they are "too big" and that they have to have the RNY. IT'S A LIE.

There is a group on Yahoo! specifically for extraordinary bandsters - people with a BMI of 50+. I would definitely recommend that you go there to find out more info that may pertain specifically to your situation. (But don't leave US!! Do us both!!)

The address for that group is: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ExtraordinaryBandsters/

I know for a fact that the lapband works for people who have a lot to lose, so stick to your guns, and very very best of luck to you!!

Lois, I agree absolutely with Donali. The band can absolutely work its magic on larger people, and I'd think even more so now that there is a new larger version available in the States.

Banding is perfect for people like you (and me) whose main problem is portion control. It's absolutely amazing to have a tool that lets me know when enough is enough, and I trust it to make decisions I have heretofore been incapable of making on my own. Good luck and don't let anyone tell you you're too big!

Hi Lois,

My BMI was 62.2 when I was banded 5/8/04, now it is already down to 57% and am down about 28 lbs. I would not have chosen this method if I wasn't pretty certain it would work. My insurance was uncooperative and I didn't bother to fight them about it. I managed to do the self pay in Mexico. Hope you have more success with the insurance than I did. Best of luck, Teresa