Hey guys,

I am new to this site and to the idea of surgery. I am looking into a lap band and i think i want to do i t, but i need support.I am 19 and I am tentatively planning for surgery in December. I just want to know about people my age who have done what I am trying to do. I am worried about excess skin. If I go through ALL this and still have to hide Im going to be pissed lol I am tired of dressing around insecurities and really just want to move on with my life. What advise do you have? How successful have you guys been? What is something you guys wish you knew before surgery.

Im not anywhere near your age ( Im a happy 56) , but im very happy with my band of 2 and half years. I dont have any loose skin, am 20 lbs away from my goal! ( which I may or may not reach, I think my body has settled at 160, ummm , oh well !!), and the only thing I regret is that I did'nt get banded sooner ! You may or may not have loose skin, but keep in mind, you are 19, at 280 lbs, and any weight you lose will be a huge benefit to you and a healthier future. Not being morbidly obese anymore is more important to me than the possibility of loose skin, even if was 19 again. ( If you do end up with loose skin, who are you going to be "pissed" at ? ) Good luck to you !

fortunately for you , you are 19 not 66 like I was. however loose skin happens when you are morbidly obese and lose weight. it's kind of like a balloon that has lost it's air. your skin is way more elastic than mine so, hopefully you won't have much loose skin. but I would rather have loose skin than be fat. you will be so happy that you made the decision to have the lapband. Best of Luck to you and keep us posted.

Hello. I know how it is for you! Your curious. I was too. I started thinking about my band when I was 16 and got it at 17. I weighed in in surgery day at 352 almost 3 lbs and here a year later I'm weighing in it 228. It is not easy but it is worth it of you wanna follow it. Just beware of being to tight for a feel, it is bandsters hell!