Hi, everyone! I need some advice from you guys relating to the gastric band. I am terrified of the gastric bypass and losing half of my intestines (well, not losing them just "bypassing" them), but my starting weight is 390 and the posts all state that the band will help you lose about 40-50% of your excess weight. That would only put me at 270 lbs post surgery after a year! how the heck am I supposed to get to 150??? that's crazy! I am trying to get informed more--I am supposed to have the surgery within the next 2 months. It seems like there are less complications than the bypass, but only 1/2 the weight loss. Any recommendations? (As a side note, I started at 420 lbs and am down to 390 after 6 weeks of a nutritional program that I am on).

Help me out, guys!!!

Newbie in NC

It comes down to a personal choice. The bypass is for life. The band can be removed. Either way, the surgeries are miracles. You must make a life change. Sorry if I'm clear as mud.

Remember those are only averages. I had surgery 11-19-08 at 333 and now 10 1/2 months later have lost 108 lbs. down to 225. Good luck you will make the best decision for you.

From what I have researched and read, after 5 or 6 years the weightloss is the same for the gastric bypass and the band.

The surgey is a choice each individual has to make. I believe the successful maintenance rate is higher for lap band but each much choose their own. CONGRATULATIONS on your 30 lbs! Sounds like you're making your life changes already. Keep it up and good luck with whatever choice you make.