:confused2: Hello Everyone,

I was originally going to get the gastric sleeve, but found out my insurance didn't cover that procedure, even though a Representative originally said they did. I had done all my pre-op appointments, but now my doctor wants me to do the lapband. I was wondering if the success rate was as high on the lapband as the gastric bypass. I tried doing a side-by-side comparison, but not much is really out there on the internet. I worry about finding places to do the "fills" in case I ever move or will the band have to be replaced after 20 years. Any information would be great! Thanks.

There are reasons why bypass is better for some people. With the Lap Band, you do have to do your part to make it work. The band will get rid of your hunger and keep you from overeating but you still have to eat right and fight the "head hunger".

Here are some good points to Lap Band vs Gastric Bypass:

• Less invasive (whereas with bypass they re-route, cut/staple the stomach and bowels)
  
• Often out-patient surgery with small incisions, less scarring, less pain and recovery time. Most bandsters are ready to resume normal activities within a week.
  
• Ten times lower mortality rate than bypass
  
• Less risk of of nutritional deficiencies and hair loss and no dumping syndrome.
  
• Adjustable so you get personalized, steady and healthier rate of weight loss. Works better for long-term weight maintenance due it being adjustable.
  
• The band is fairly new in the US so we don't know what will happen in 20 years but the important thing is that it is replaceable, repairable and removable. When you have bypass, if there are complications there is no reversing what has been done.
  

Thanks for the info. You make some really good points. Have a great day!