Question:
Lap Band -vs- RNY
Went to a seminar and then my first consult Monday. My heart was sat on the lapband no if's and's or but's about it. But, after talking to the doctor she brought up a lot of issues and encouraged me to strongly think about RNY. But, said she felt I could be successful at either surgery. Now, I'm so confused, I'm beginning to wonder if I even want any surgery. My surgical weight loss would only be expected to be around 60-70 lbs. Why can't I do this on my own? So many questions-is this typical? — nanajan (posted on February 28, 2008)
February 28, 2008
You are right to be investigating all of your options and to be very picky
about your choice. Any WLS should be a last resort and is not to be taken
lightly. At a 41 BMI why is the dr saying you should only lose 60-70 lbs?
How much do you think you need to lose?
Unfortunately there is no easy answer. Have you tried to lose weight on
your own? If I had only 69 lbs to lose I wouldnt have gotten any surgery
but for me, I had 185 lbs to lose (which I did) and the lapband or RNY
wasnt going to cut it for me which is why I chose the Duodenal Switch.
I wish you all the best in your quest for health!!!!!
— SameButDifferent
February 28, 2008
i ALSO wanted the lap-band at first and then i was told the rny would be
better for my diabetes. do you have other health issues? i was told the
band would be right for somone wanting to loose less then 100# and very
motivated. I do know someone who lost 65 lbs with the band. if you think
you can do it with out the surgery then you should try. good luck
— JACKIESMOM
February 28, 2008
I would like to know who your dr is. You have to be at leats 100 LBS
overweight to have the surgery and there is no way you would only lose
60-70LBs with rny. with the band I believe it. I know a girl who had the
band and she still looks like she could lose another 100lbs. I had rny and
lost 150LBS. I was 247 to start. With the band the weight loss is slower
and less and I have heard so many people say they wish they had rny. I am
very happy with this surgery. It also is the best tool at keeping the
weight off if you use the tool correctly.
— Joanc
February 28, 2008
I'm positive that the power lies within you to lose this weight on your
own!! The question you should really be asking yourself is what brought
you to the state where you felt you have to turn to surgery. Have you
tried ALL of your options, or did the fear of hearing how real this COULD
be set in? Grab a piece of paper, fold it in half and write the pros and
cons down. If the pros out weigh the cons for surgery your set, or if visa
versa, make sure that you really consider everything involved. Best of
luck to you!!
— bariatricdivalatina
February 28, 2008
Don't stop at just one doctor's lecture. WLS is serious and you should not
just jump for a quick fix, because it is not that easy and there are risk.
It will change your life, mostly for the better, but you have to live with
your decision. I went to over 20 around the state of Florida and I found
the one that had a RNY himself and had done 6000 of the surgeries. The
first guy I went to did it part time and had done 200. Don't be afraid to
ask anything. I asked each of them how many people died under them doing
surger and how many RNY wls they had done in open meetings. Good ones
don't hesate to tell you. All surgeries are dangerious, and I did it as a
last resort. I am 62 years old and I have yo-yo dieted for years taking
off over 100 lbs and then putting 110 pounds on to replace the loss in less
time than it took to loose. I see to many lap band people that go half way
and give up. RNY is serious changes that you will live with the rest of
you life. Go to support group meetings of people that have had surgery.
They will they you what they think. At my support group, 95% are RNY. The
lab band people don't think they need support groups, I guess. I have lost
67 lbs in 3 months and I never felt better, but I have nearly 100 lbs to go
to be at the ideal weight of 165 lbs. While my BMI is now 39, I would
still do it today at this weight, because it worked for me and many others
I see. I expect to loose 100% of my weight, but I knowhe last 40 lbs will
be the hardest. Don't think you eat what you want and still loose weight.
I eat mainly protein, fruits and vegatables, no patatios, bread, rice or
pasta. No cakes or pies, no sugar and not much fat. It will make you sick
if you do. Lab Band does not and they can eat that stuff, but they don't
have as great of weight loss. I can have the cards in small portions after
6 months, but you know I worked to hard the first three months so Iam not
going there until I am clearly at my goal weight.
— William (Bill) wmil
February 28, 2008
WITH BMI OF 40+ YOU WILL NEED TO LOSE MORE THAN 60-70LBS.I WAS 306 NOW
192.I DID THIS IN 7M9 HAD THE RNY.IF YOU HVE THS PATIENCE THE THE LAP-BAND
IS RIGHT FOR YOU.CAN YOU CAN DO IT ON YOUR OWN GO FOR IT.BUT LIKE MOST OF
US WE GAIN IT BACK PLUS 20 MORE LBS.THIS IS A DISCESION YOU MUST COSIDER
VERY CAREFULLY.HOPE YOU MAKE THE RIGHT CHIOCES. LEHIGH
— lehigh
February 28, 2008
I was originally scheduled for the RNY surgery, during the surgery to
discover that I had cirrhosis of the liver, which is counterintuitive to
having the RYN. My surgeon had no choice but to close.
We had a hard 9 days of disppointent, but I resubmited the insurance for
the lap band, and on August 23 2007. I had my second surgury, I couldn't
be happier with the choice and the results.
I am now 6 months out down 104 pounds. The Lap band does require more from
you (it is just a tool), I love it!
— Steve Braudt
February 28, 2008
I was going to do the lapband too until my husband and I did a LOT of
research. I had the RNY and am so glad I did it. I am down 76 lbs after one
year. Still 26 lbs to go. Pray about it!!
— Claudia C.
February 28, 2008
I am in the same boat as you. My BMI is between 40 & 41. I can't
believe these people that don't think that we "lightweights" need
the surgery. Our hundred pounds is just as health-threatening as their
excess pounds! The NIH standards state anyone with a BMI of 40 or more or
anyone with a BMI of 35 to 39 with co-morbidities is recommended for the
surgery!!!! And the National Institute of Health also states that surgery
is the only long-term solution for the disease of obesity. If we could do
it on our own, we would already have done it. I'm sure everyone here has
lost hundreds and hundreds of pounds, only to regain it.
With the lap band you will only have 60-70% weight loss as compared to
70-85% with the RNY. I too was initially set on the lap-band, but the more
I learn the more I become convinced that the RNY is right for me because I
want the behavior modification reinforcement. But you're the only one that
can decide for you.
Also I'm reading in my research that us "lightweights" are more
likely to lose a larger percentage of our excess weight than people with
more to lose. I'm currently reading "A Complete Guide to Obesity
Surgery" & this is discussed in there.
And yes, this is typical. We all go through this process of trying to
decide what is right for us. I hope you make the right decision for you.
— loggurl
February 28, 2008
Hi Janet - I too was set on going with the lap band until I went to a
seminar and a girl there said she was 7 mos out (she had lap band) and only
lost 7 lbs. After I did research and alot of reading I decided on the RNY.
I was told it would be possible I would only lose about 60% of my weight
(I weighed 235 at the time) HOWEVER, I am 16 months out and have lost a
total of 116 lbs. I had hit the 100 lb mark when I was 9.5 mos out.
Everyone is different. I followed everything by the book. Did exactly
what I was told to do. Kept all my appointments, and am still going to
groups, still read (there are awesome books on Life after gastric bypass
surgery and cook books etc. Go on line & read everything there is
about both surgeries. And yes, I thought the same thing why can't I do it
on my own. Well, I'm 53 and have been heavy most of my life. I should own
shares in Weight Watchers and all other things I spent my money on. Each
year people spend approx 177 billion dollars on all kinds of diet related
programs and items. I have only one regret about this surgery that I
didn't do it sooner. I was at the point my Dr. told me if I didn't do
something about my weight soon I wouldn't make it out of my 60's. I was
only figuring on losing about 80 lbs from this surgery. You don't have to
have to lose 100 lbs in order to have the surgery. Usually you have to
have a BMI of 40 or over or if you have health issues. I cannot tell you
how much better I feel, and I"m off all my blood pressure meds,
arthritas and fibromyalgia are all under control. Just educate yourself
and you will feel alot stronger in your decision.
Best of Luck
— niecie54
February 28, 2008
I too went in to have a lap-band...as it seemed less invasive..and all the
things you've probably seen on tv or other ads. I was talked out of it
too..by 3 surgeons. I think it's smart to do what feels right for you...in
your gut. Weigh the options and understand that none of these surgeries is
going to get you to goal....without using the tool properly and diligently.
I'm wondering if the surgeon meant to say 60-70% PERCENT rather than
pounds that you'd be expected to lose. That's what they told me. That
with lap-band, you'll not get to your goal without adding a lot of exercise
and being very conscious of food intake. You also need to keep up with
your fills with the lap band to restrict the stomach, otherwise you won't
lose either. There's also no mal-absorbtion with lap band. With the
RNY...they said most get closer to their goal, but still there's not a
guarantee you'll meet it. Also, the heavier you are...the more expected
weight loss with any surgery. So if you're not as obese, your expected
weight loss won't be as huge..or dramatic as someone that starts out over
400 pounds and loses 100 pounds in say... 6-8 months.
If you're hesitant about surgery.... and feel that the lapband is what you
need to get healthier...than go with what feels right for you. I needed to
lose 150 pounds... if not a little more... so RNY made more sense for me.
Just keep researching and checking out surgeons too. It's not something to
step into lightly. Best of luck.
Cheryl
— Cheryl K.
February 28, 2008
Your BMI is certainly high enough to qualify you for WLS, but I think the
one to best decide what is best for you is you, aided with surgeons' input
and your own research. We can all tell you what is working for us (I
haven't had my surgery yet but have lost 43 lbs on the preop diet with
nutritionist's support and researched for the better part of a year before
deciding to have WLS), but each person is different. Remember that WLS is
only a tool, and it's important to find a surgeon who is affiliated with a
magnet hospital that qualifies as a bariatric treatment center. The surgeon
practice should also include trained weight loss clinic staff who include a
nutritionist, psychological support, exercise information, and support
groups. While all bariatric surgeons must be certified, some doctors have
more experience and training than others. You can review your potential
bariatric surgeon's credentials, educational history, and record of
experience so you know he is using the latest techniques and tools and has
successfully done multiple surgeries with few complications. All I can
think of for now - good luck! If you'd like to chat my e-mail is
[email protected].
— obeseforever
February 28, 2008
I too was initially set on the lap-band, but after much research i decided
on the RNY. However, when I went to a WLS seminar the doctor also talked
also about Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG). The surgery is easy for the
doctor. the long term results are similar to RNY, there are vertually no
complications after surgery, and most importantly to me was there is no
malabsorption so I know the meds I have to take as well as the vitamins
will axtually get into my system. There is an added benefit in that when
they remove 85%-95% of your stomach they also remove the production of
Ghrelin which is a harmone that makes you hungry. I did tons of research
and spent alot of time on the VSG forum on this site. I was so convinced
it was the best WLS for me that I paid for the surgery myself even though
my insurance was willing to pay for either the band of the RNY. I got my
sleeve 10-25-07 and I couldn't be happier. Keep doing research and good
luck to you. Pat
— pjennjr
February 28, 2008
I had the rny b/c i was 400 pounds. I think the rny is better but also you
can lose what you want. They said i would lose 60 percent I lost more like
80 percent of excesse.
research but it is up to you.
— tl_morgan
February 28, 2008
Janet. I was considered a lightweight before having my surgery. I was about
38.5 BMI, but I am very small framed and I had co-morbidities that
qualified me for the surgery even though I had not reached a BMI of 40.
First of all, don't listen to what anyone tells you about your
"expected" weight loss. Your body will loose to your natural
weight. I started out at almost 250 and I expected to lose down to about
130 or so. Instead, after about 18 months, I stabilized at about 115. Your
body will find normal assuming you take care of your health.
I was a sugar junkie so I knew the lap band would not work for me. I needed
a procedure that would not allow me to consume sugar in quantity or else it
would have been a wasted effort. You have to identify your weaknesses to
know the right corrective procedure for you.
I truly believe that this surgery saved my life and I am an avdocate.
However.... Know everything possible before you make a decision. Identify
your weaknesses and choose a procedure that will help you resist the thing
that tempts you most. For me, the lap band was not an option because it
wouldn't slow down my sugar intake. RNY fixed that little issue for me! I
am now almost 5.5 years post op and I'm still successful in my weight loss
goals! Best of luck to you!
— Tina C.
February 28, 2008
I can't answer your question, because I wonder the same thing. But, the
band is working with me to lose the wt. I chose the band because of the
adjustability and removability of it. I am satisfied with my choice, but it
is really an individual one. I think it is good that you are full of
questions - this means you will work it out! Good luck! and let me know
what you decide. Tami
— Tamboh63
February 29, 2008
Obviously, it should be an individual's decision. For my part, I am
ecstatic that I had RNY. My diabetes disappeared immediately after surgery.
My weight loss has been dramatic (78 lbs in 4 mos.). But it is no "get
out of jail" free card. Now, I must be eating and exercising sensibly
for losses to continue. Another reason I'm glad I chose RNY is that many
lap band people in my support group are always dealing with fills and
related frustrations -- too much, too little, etc. After so many years
overweight, I don't want something removable! I know I have a eating
problem! This will never change -- and I almost paid with serious health
consequences. Good luck!
— Cathy 1.
February 29, 2008
It is a big decision either way. I think you could try to loose the weight
yourself. The surgery is a tool. I lost 248lbs in the first year. 100 to
go. If I only had 60 to 70 to loose I would try myself. I was too far gone
to loose on my own. I was set on the lapband and decided to go with the
full gastric by-pass. After my seminars I thought the lap band was not for
me. I thought long and hard about it and I figures that the fats etc are
still going into the regular stomach after going through the pouch and
woulf still absorb into my body. Still talk to the Dr's. Thats just my
thoughts. Again I had to loose 350 lbs not a few. You have to relax and
talk to differant people and see what they think. Bobby
— obx100
February 29, 2008
Thank you all for your answers. You have certainly given me a lot to think
about. A lot of people questioned me only wanting to lose 60-70 lbs-from
my understanding this is a realistic guesstament of the percent of excess
weight I would lose. I realize this is something I going to have to
research, talk through and pray a whole lot about. Each of you have
brought up interesting input and information that I need to make the right
decision for me. Thank you all and the best of luck on each of your
journies.
— nanajan
February 29, 2008
Don't be a sissy - what you are doing now, is not working. I had Open
surgery, and couldn't be happier. You need to do what your heart tells you,
but I will say that the adjustment after, is not the big deal everyone will
tell you it is.
I'm down to 280 from 396 in 5 month's, and happier than ever!!!
— 29Diesel
February 29, 2008
I have the lap band. I have lost 66 lbs so far (10 months) and am
continuing to lose weight. Drs that are new to the band &/or use only
the 4cc band and those use to seeing the quick weight loss of bypass prefer
what tthey know, they are people & just like all people are leary of
change. It is true that in the first 18 months bypass loses more wieght.
But with the band, weight loss can continue much longer than that.
I would suggest a lot or research. I had my surgery done in Mexico by Dr
Rumbaut, he has a band himself and lost much more than 100#. There are
boars here for many different surgeons as well as the different types of
surgeries that can give you answers to many of your questions. Good luck.
— Donna O.
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