In the Process

Hello Everyone, Over a year ago I visited this forum as I was considering surgery.  A few things happened in my personal life that put everything on hold, and then of course I waned back into thinking I could do this myself.  I have  switched surgeons (this is one of the things that discouraged me, the doctor was awful) and am much happier with the new surgeon and his practice.  I am scared, but getting more excited about the prospect of being able to put being obese behind me and getting on with the business of life.  I'm content with my decision to have WLS, but can't decide between RNY and Lap Band surgeries.  I'm hoping the doc can help with that decision.  I'm on the fast track, trying to get everything in place for the end of 2007 /or early 2008 as I am off from work for three weeks. Perfect timing.  I remember many of you from reading your posts and have lurked from time to time in the past year or more.   My general physician has asked me to outline the letter for the insurance company and he'll write in the details and sign it.  If anyone has Aetna HMO and some tips, I'd be grateful for any heads up. I am planning to call  them and get the specifics as to what details they need. I've seen the dietician and lined up some of my other testing appts.  I'm on my way!  There is one big difference this time around, my husband is on board.  Last time he was totally against it, and now he's happy that I'm going to do it.  What a difference a year makes!  Dawn in Alexandria

Dawn , good to hear you did not give up . I know first hand how life can get in the way .  Choosing surgeries all depends on you , your body size , restrictions you may want or not want .  For me , I wanted the Cadillac of all surgeries and that is the RNY .. It gives me everything I want , the restrictions and the weightloss . I have lost 200 plus pounds and I use my tool . I thank God everyday that I went this way .  The lap band has it advantages as well . It is not as evasive , it is best used for those that have a good self control and do not desire the effects of dumping and gastric issues sometimes accompanied by RNY .  You will want to look at how much weight you want to loose . I see most doctors prescibing the Lap Band to those with Lower BMI's as compared to many that have BMI of over 40 . Co_-morbidities play key as well . I for one needed to get the weight off as I was severly diabetic and my cholestoral was going to kill me .  I would say to visit the RNY message boards as well as the Lap Band Message boards . Remember that you are the consumer and you need to be 100 % comfortable in your decision and prepared to live that lifestyle .  Again , Congrats on your decision .  Natalie

Hi Dawn and welcome back!  Congratulations on switching surgeons - you really have to be happy with your surgeon of choice because he is playing a very important role in your life. I really love my gastric bypass surgeon!

Your doctor can help you decide what surgery is best for you. I had RNY to ensure that my lack of willpower did not make me fails this time around. The fear of dumping etc prevents me from even wanting to eat things I should not. I also wanted a quicker weight loss - patience never was my strong point lol!! And I am really happy with my choice. I take vitamins every day because of the malabsorption that accompanies RNY and do regular labs. I have never been healthier. Equally, I have a friend who had lapband and is very happy with it. Her weight loss is slower but she knew that from the outset and she is fairly disciplined in her eating habits. The recovery time is a little longer for the RNY but both can be done laprascopically ( I really buchered that word I know). Lap band is less invasive and you will probably only be in hospital overnight and maybe 2-3 days with RNY. At the end of the day, both are just tools and it is up to you how you use them. You need to be prepared for a lifestyle change, and if you can do that, you will be successful whatever the tool. I believe Aetna requires a six month supervised diet but it differs from insurance to insurance - so it would be best if you do what you are planning to do and contact them for their exact requirements... It is always much easier if your spouse is with you and not against you. I have wonderful support from my husband and could not ask for more. Good luck in your path forward and now that we are all here to support you.... Jackie