IS there anyone out there that has been banded for a long time? 8 , 10 years, more..... I wonder about the long term effects of having a lap band/ Does it really work to help you keep the weight off - even 10 , 20 , 30 years from now? I don't want yet another quick fix that then no longer works after a certain amount of time......

would love to hear from someone who has lived with this for a long time!

Hi, I'm thinking about banding as well. I have been thinking about having the procedure done for quite some time. I will be 36 in a few weeks and don't want to live the rest of my adult life at this weight. I have at least 100 pounds to lose. My husband is very supportive of my decision to pursue this option. I am going to make an appointment to see my Doctor this week. I am also planning on attending a support/info. meeting in two weeks. I have read many of the threads and must say that you are all an inspiriation to me. I have laughed at some of your experiences and felt your pain. It's nice to be in a place where other people understand your battle with food. I look forward to becoming involved with this site. the support you all provide to each other is amazing.

Jenn

IS there anyone out there that has been banded for a long time? 8 , 10 years, more..... I wonder about the long term effects of having a lap band/ Does it really work to help you keep the weight off - even 10 , 20 , 30 years from now? I don't want yet another quick fix that then no longer works after a certain amount of time......

would love to hear from someone who has lived with this for a long time!

Hi Short c!

I think you would be hard pressed to find an American bandster who has been banded 10+ because the band was only approved for use in the US in 2001.

In Europe and Australia the band has been in use since the early 90's, and while there have been reports of people having their bands removed, I personally know a few long term bandsters who are still very happy with their bands 7, 9 and almost 11 years later.

Best of luck!

Hi Short c!

I think you would be hard pressed to find an American bandster who has been banded 10+ because the band was only approved for use in the US in 2001.

In Europe and Australia the band has been in use since the early 90's, and while there have been reports of people having their bands removed, I personally know a few long term bandsters who are still very happy with their bands 7, 9 and almost 11 years later.

Best of luck!

Thanks, Chickie,

The fact that you've been at goal for a year is wonderful. Are you finding it helpful staying at goal? That's my big thing. I can lose weight, ( although that's getting harder and harder) but before long it starts to creep back up, so for me nirvana would be reaching goal weight ( which I haven't been at for more than 25 years ) and STAY.

HOw did you find your doc who did the procedure?

My husband is concerned as I am about the long term effect of the surgery and if I will have to be banded for life? I have an appointment with my dr. next week for the insurance requirement evaluation. I have the paperwork filled out for the surgeon and his group of workers who consult with you prior to making the final decisions. I am a little scared of the long term, however it seems to beat the gastric bypass procedures hands down. Does anyone know if hair loss is an issue as it is with some of the other procedures out there?:clap2::clap2:

The band will stay with you for life unless there is a good reason to have it removed.

You should not lose your hair as you will not have any mal-absorption problems like if you were to have bypass. Granted you should probably consider a supplement because it might be difficult to get in all the nutrients when you are eating only small meals.

Thanks, I am sure I will have plenty more conversations before this process is over. It is nice to be able to get feedback from someone who has been there.