Question:
VBS vs RYN

which is better and more recommmended by patients. Having a hard time deciding which one I want to have done. Any Advice    — sweetone2010 (posted on February 2, 2010)

February 2, 2010
April, you'll get a lot of different responses. The different surgeries offer different benefits and risks. I made my decision to have RNY because I weigh 340 pounds and really don't think I can lose all I need with other surgeries (my surgeon doesn't offer DS, and it's a priority for me to live close to my surgeon for after care). With RNY, you have the support not only of restriction with the smaller stomach, but also malabsorption with the changes in your intestines. Of course, the flipside of that is that with RNY you have to take vitamins for life because of the malabsorption. You'll hear a lot of horror stories about RNY folks and "dumping syndrome," where many patients can't eat sugar at all or they end up sick. Personally, I like that effect... I have some bad habits to break, and this surgery is really going to help me break my bad eating habits. After the "honeymoon period" where I lose lots of weight, it will be up to me to keep it off by maintaining healthy eating. I suggest to you that you read about both surgeries in the forums present here on the OH website. Under forums, surgical forums... you'll see the various message boards related to the different surgeries. There's a lot to learn... but it's worth learning if you want to take this big step to change your life!
   — Greg K.

February 2, 2010
Not sure what you mean by VBS - are you referring to the sleeve? I know there are so many different surgeries and many surgeons call them by different names. I am wondering if you are referring to what I know as the VSG (vertical sleeve gastectomy). I had a hard time deciding between the two, but I chose the sleeve for the very reasons the other poster listed. I didn't want to deal with malabsorption issues for the rest of my life. That being said, if you think you might be someone that will try and push it and even "drink" your calories (milkshakes, slider foods like ice cream), then the RNY may be the best route for you. With the sleeve, there really is no food you won't be able to eat eventually - no dumping syndrome. So, you do need to be more disciplined in the long run. I weighed 369 at my highest - 336 on day of surgery, and currently weight 195. I still have about 60 lbs to go and am 17 months out. I am very happy with the sleeve,but I think it does take more work than the RNY. You really should research all options carefully and then make your decision (along with your surgeon) on what is best for you. Best of luck!
   — Wendy M.