:wink2: hello im new here and ive been considering the lap band surgery for the past 2 years and now it has come down to im ready to have it...ive purchase insurance and now i just have to wait to the pre-existing point is up which is so discouraging . i also want to know if there is anyone in here that would know if lap band surgery is better for people that has less weight to lose or would the gastric work better...im so confused and scared also i dont know what steps to take please someone help me out

Gastric bypass usually takes less time to lose the excess weight, but it comes with different risks and consequences than banding.

Bypassing connects your esophagus to your large intestine, bypassing your stomach. You won't be able to digest food in a normal manner anymore and many bypass patients end up with nutrient absorption problems. Also, gastric bypass is not generally reversible, in most cases. If patients are so morbidly obese that the risks are worth the benefits, then a bypass is right for them.

Banding is a tool that helps you eat smaller meals, but only if you follow the rules. You will still digest food normally, but the benefits of banding can be defeated by poor eating habits and bad food choices. It takes discipline and it's not a magic weight loss bean.

Bypass was just too drastic a step for me, but you need to decide what is right for you.

Bryan

Banded August 26, 2008