I'm 21 years old and had the gastric lap-band surgery done January 2005. The weight loss is not as dramatic and fast as the gastric bypass; however, it is much less invasive. I am very happy with the surgery and with my surgeon (Dr/ David Davtyan). He is a big help because he had the procedure done on himself. I called my insurance company (Great-west PPO) and found out all the information I needed to qualify. I submitted a 30 page package of all my diet history, recomandations from doctors,a psych. evaluation and a 2 page letter sharing with them my story and struggles. I was approved in THE NEXT DAY. I wouldn't recomend this procedure for those people who need to loose more than 200 pounds and are not very active. The lap-band just makes your food portions smaller but the rest is up to you. Its important to do follow ups and keep track of your weight loss. I know many people who have done the bypass surgery and without exercise lost over 150 pounds. I workout 5 days a week and have lost 25 pounds in 2 1/2 months. The main reason why I chose this procedure was because there aren't any health problems in the future and I can have children!!! Its very important to know that this is completly reversable and I know when the time comes for me to have children I can loosen the band and be back to normal until I have my baby.
Surgeon Info:
Surgeon: David G. Davtyan, M.D, F.A.C.S, F.I.C.S
Dr. Davtyan is very professional and straight forward. I can say he doesn't hold your hand like your a baby...eventhough many people,(like myself)need it. He is the most experienced and knowledgable doctor I came in contact with. One of the main reasons I chose him was becuase I knew had the surgery done years ago, before he began to perform the procedure himself. His staff is great. They are always friendly and on top of things. One of his assistance had the lap-band done as well. I would HIGHLY recomend him becuase with him you know and feel that you are in good hands.
Insurer Info:
Great-West PPO
