I spoke to Maral today and one of the things I asked her was why I got the Swedish band when so many others have the mid band. She explained that the Swedish is a longer band (not larger in capacity than the Mid) and it depends on the size of your stomach. Apparently mine is quite large, but I think that is a given! LOL

Actually, she then rushed to tell me that the size of the stomach is NOT reflective of a person's size or weight. It is genetic and a large size person can have a small stomach and vice versa.

I feel better knowing. I also love that Dr. Yau makes these calls when he peeks inside and is able to choose the best band for you.

Did I mention my crush on Dr. Yau???:embarassed: Even though he looks 15!!!

Don't tell my DH. :high5:

I agree Susan...that is one of the great thing about TLBC...their desire and ability to use the band best suited for each person...whether it be the Inamed, Swedish, Midband etc.

I also agree re. Dr Yau...he is SUCH a sweet and caring man (& yes, cute!).

is that the biggest difference with the bands, simply that the band it's self is longer or shorter?

there are also some other differences but your best bet is to ask the clinic about it and not some "Layman"! (as the answers you get may be "suspect").

is that the biggest difference with the bands, simply that the band it's self is longer or shorter?

I guess I am a Layman but if I recall correctly the differences are subtle- the Swedish band has/had to be closed by sutures. The lap-band and MIDBand have proprietary clasps or latching techniques that keep the band closed. The MidBand is also a bit wider and their website claims that it is low pressure. I am not sure what that means but that appears to be the major difference. The ports are slightly different in appearence as well. The lapband is made entirely of silicon and the midband has either titanium or surgical stainless steel as part of it. All of them essentially work the same. Only the lap-band from Allergan/Inamed is available in the United States. Although a Johnson and Johnson company aquired the swedish band and it is currently in phase 3 testing by the FDA. The MIDBand is a french product and available in the UK, France and other EU countries. I think it may also be available in Thailand. I suppose if my insurance didn't cover it I would choose a vacation in France or the UK over Mexico anyday.

Oops, Despite being 50% Canadian, I failed to see that I was posting in a Canadian section. Apparently all three are available there as well. Good luck in whatever band you are given..

I was given the midband by Dr. Yau. The only thing that I am not happy about is where the port is. When I sit my bra (DD's) sits right at the top of it pushing it down. The scar there is the worst of the 4. The one by my belly button is hardly visible.

i have the midband and i have 5 scars