Hi my name is Ayana and I am on the fence about getting the lap-band done. I have gone through all the medical evaluations and now I am waiting on approval from my insurance and a date from my surgeon.

I have mixed feelings from family and friends about getting the procedure done. I have mixed feelings myself. I am concerned if I will be able to live with the food restrictions for the rest of my life.:thumbup:

Then you are not ready! I was the same way a year ago when my sister had the surgery done. There was absolutely no way no how I was going to get the surgery done. Then I started to see the weight loss and was suprised by what she could actually eat and I said thats it. I am tired of being heavy and I am never going to change my way so I might as well get some help! I was banded on jan 14th, 2010 and so far it is the best decision I have ever made. I am down 32 lbs and feel GREAT!

Good luck with your decision. Only you know if you are ready for this. I have 5 people in my life who have had it done so I know I can do it!

Hey Ayana

I don't know if I have any advice for you to help ease your mind but what I can offer you is knowledge that you are not alone in you worries. I have not had the surgery and I find myself on the fence as well at times. Family and friends as much as they mean to us can "cloud our heads" when it comes to making this decision. They often only see the complications that could arise from the surgery....and some see the procedure as a "easy" way to become skinny. If you are like me... I have been overweight almost my whole life and I haven't been able to find one "easy" way to be skinny yet.... because if there was...I would of found it by now. What I have learned by doing research (tons of it) is regardless what kind of tool(the lap band is a tool ) you use to lose weight, your food must be restricted. A new lifestyle is a must. the lap band will only be a tool to help you learn to eat smaller bites, to chew slower and to feel fuller quicker. It is not an miracle cure to obesity but a awesome tool to help you along your journey to a healther lifestyle....plus, it is not a permantely altering surgery. I wish you the best in your endeavors.

I TOO DITTO WHAT SHELLIEBELL SAID, YOU NEED TO BE MENTALLY READY TO FACE ANY CHALLENGES AND COMMITTED TO STAY ON THE PROGRAM, UNTIL THEN, DON'T DO IT, GET READY, THEN GO! WHAT EVER YOU DECIDE, I WISH YOU THE BEST, GOD BLESS YOU

It's not an easy process, but it's so worth it. You just have to be ready to eat way less and chose mostly health things. I'll invite you to read through some of my blog, here (I try to be truthful):

THE SWEET SPOT

Good luck with your decision. -BG