lap band question

bethaniestarr · October 16, 2003

i went to my group consult yesterday.I'm with Dr Aslam in Maine.They went thru the types of surgery and said now they even do the rny by a lap scope.I told them i just want the lap band no cutting.The dr explained that most people want the rny because its faster weight lost and alot of weight.I said i didnt care i still want the lap band would rather lose slow.He said the precentage of losing weight is about 50% of excess weight.I was curious if anyone has lost more then that and in what time frame? Thx

donali · October 16, 2003

Lots of people have lost more than 50%, and many get to their goal weight.

The big difference I see between the RNY and band is that with the RNY, besides cutting up and replumbing your insides, there is a weight loss "window" of about 1.5 to 2 years, after which MANY people start to regain the weight they lost (my sister is one of those). The body adjusts to the malabsorbtion part of the RNY calorie-wise, so that ceases to be a factor in weight loss, even though nutrient-wise RNY patients look at a lifetime deficit unless they take supplements.

With the band, there is no "window" for weight loss, and once you reach goal weight you have constant help to stay there from your restriction. I have read many articles that state at 2 years out, the weight loss percentage between RNY and band is pretty much equal.

Stick to your guns, and don't let them talk you out of your research. Facts are facts - yes, most RNY patients will lose much faster, but in the long run the band catches up, and continues to carry on where the RNY fails many in maintenance mode.

I am almost 9 months out, and although I have lost only 36% of my excess weight so far, I expect to have lost 59% at my one year banniversary, and to continue until I reach my goal.

I don't know how many long termers there are on this board, but I know there are lots who've lost more than 100 pounds, and many who have lost 100% of their excess weight, but more importantly, are KEEPING it off.

Good luck!

BEBBLY · October 17, 2003

Oh Please don't do the RNY. I have heard so many horror stories. I was banded on Aug 7th and have since lost 22 lbs. One of the main reasons I chose to do the band instead of surgery was the fact that it is reversable!

My thought was you never know how your body will react to the belt or the procedure and I took comfort in knowing that if something goes wrong I can take it out and move on.

But with the RNY there is no turning back and so much can go wrong. Please do more research and if your doctor will not listen to your wish then perhaps it is time to look for another doctor.

Good Luck

Mary