Good Morning.

Before posting this message, I've been mulling over some comments made to me the other day. But since I can't 'just let it go', I'm writing in to you all.

I went to my hairdresser the other day. I told her that I'd next be in right before my surgery; yes - I told her about the Band. She said she heard of it, a friend she just saw at a holiday party had it done. **then came the the sucker punch to my gut. She went onto say stuff like "Oh, well you know...you really don't loose weight that fast with that. She ONLY looked as if she were just dieting". "You know, you loose much faster with the Bypass". That was enough to send me into another 'self doubt' about my pending surgery. So I have been online, looking at another 'obesity' website, checking out the photos, etc. I learned that these AMAZING results are from the Bypass; no pics from lap band folks. Now I KNOW how amazing you all have done, how healthy, gorgeous and amazing your photos show you as you are today. I guess I was just disturbed by the 'lack' of Banders out there...other than what I find here. Then I also think, what IF I don't loose weight with the band...will I then go onto getting Bypass? I keep thinking that I'm going to be 'missing out', parties, events, etc. I keep thinking I am going to be 'changed for life'...almost obsessing that this is the end of my life as I know it. ***Maybe this is all jitters. I hate 2nd guessing myself. Mostly, I feel like I'm letting you all down; as if I'm doubting your faith in that this can and IS being done - and successfully.

:confused:

It's not about weight as much as it is about health. You have plenty of time to loose weight with the band

Amen!

I was a successful bandster. I would never consider the bypass. I would be obese for the rest of my life. Bypass for me is way to risky too many possible complications and side affects from it. I had a friendtell me the other day he was having the bypass after seeing my success the entire way with the band. I asked him why would he have the bypass and take the risks and deal with dumping and malabsorption issues for the rest of his life when he can have the band. His answer was the success rate was quicker with the bypass. Quicker is not always better. Most bypass patients I know look unhealthy, pekid, flabby and suken in faces because of the rapid weight loss. Not to mention the higher risk of gaining the wieght back after the 1-2 year window of opportunity once their pouches are stretched out. Just my opinion. Go with your gut, listen to your heart. DO not let anyone deter you from your choice what ever it is.

Tricia, I am so sorry for your loss. I know its really hard for you right now, but you can't blame yourself for what happened to your cousin. Kare is right, there are risks to any surgery. Of course that doesn't make you mourn her any less.

For those of you who have lost weight slowly and those who lost it more rapidly, how much are you excerising? I'm wondering if the rate of weight loss has to do with the amount you excerise as well.

I can say I'd rather had lapband than gastric bypass. I went to a GB seminar and walked out of there knowing I'll never get that surgery-talk about restrictions! Ironically, the doctor's staff who gave the seminar is the same doc who did my gallbladder removal.

I know several people have already responded to the "quicker is not better" aspect of your concern. I will say I completely agree with what they have said and add that with time comes the opportunity to change bad habits and to deal with why some of us overeat. Bad habits take time to change!

Also, you mentioned concern over your new lifestyle. That was my BIGGEST concern going into this. I wanted to eat like a normal person. I can say happily that I do!! Only DH and two friends even know I had the surgery. I have gone out to eat several times with people who don't know I'm banded and they still don't know. I simply tell them I am trying to eat better!!

Good luck

I lost 100 lbs in one year. Is that quick enough for you?

Sure, bypass folks lose faster. They also have a high indication for regaining after one year because the stomach relaxes. My dr says if you have only so much weight that you can lose it in a year, then fine, do a RNY. If, like me, you have more than a year's worth to lose, then the band is a better option as it is adjustable for a lot longer.

Either way, you are going to lose weight. Don't let speed be the deciding factor. Let what is best for you help you choose.

Dear Tricia,

Wow. I never expected to read that scenario in your post. I am so sorry to hear of your cousin's death. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family.