You definitely need to have your head in it too. This is only a tool, the rest is up to you like with any attempt to lose weight. It is not a fix all. It is an opportuniy to get you to a healthier place so that you can take control of your life. So make sure you are ready for all the changes you will have to make. Don't be discouraged. No matter what you will probably end up healthier. Definitely life changing.

I definitely think you should have all the information offered when you are in the deciding stages. The nutritionist, the psychologist, as well as your bariatric Dr. All the research makes it very clear that a percentage of patients gain their weight back if they do not make the life style changes necessary to maintain a healthy weight. We all became overweight by having unhealthy eating and exercise habits. After having uncontrolled diabetes for over 7 years, I had a heart attack last March (I'm 51) I knew I had to do something to see my Grandkids grow up. I am so aware that the success of my lap band surgery is on my shoulders. I am 6 weeks out, 27lbs lighter, and have gone from 6 insulin shots a day to 2. I have my first lap band fill tomorrow. I am keeping a calorie diary daily. I am able to walk more. I have more energy. I am going to live if I follow the instructions given to me by my team. It is not always easy and I have caught myself slipping into old habits on occasion, but I keep on because I know this is not a miracle cure. It is up to me to embrace the help the band is giving me and follow through with my part. Good luck.

First, I don't understand how this is possible. Does the band suddenly stop doing it's function? The band gives me restriction to the point it is impossible to over eat! Does that change in 5 years? I don't know, I have only been banded for a year.

Second...if I loose weight, to get to to a normal BMI which I have never had since High School....40 years ago.....THERE IS NO WAY I WILL LET MYSELF GET FAT EVER AGAIN!!!!

Once I'm there, I'm not going to let it go. SIMPLE!

I wish you had just said, "how many, Doctor?" because I can just about guarantee you he doesn't know. People have a 'feeling' that this wont work but if they are not aware of the statistics of how many succeed and how many fail and what the average weight loss is for all patients...PLEASE DONT LISTEN TO THEM!!!

PS...love my band, normal BMI, wear a size 6, finding this whole thing pretty easy these days...

In one week, I will have my band for 5 years. I have not put back on the weight. My highest weight was 256 lbs. I had the worse eating habits and the weakest one when it came to sticking to a diet long term. One time I gained about 12 lbs but I was trying to stop smoking..but had my band adjusted and lost it. Only problem I have had is a protein deficiency. I was full but wasn't getting enough protein so important to watch this. It is the best decision I have ever made getting lapband surgery.

Two things about your post really stand out:

1) If your decision to get surgery is so iffy that one doctor's opinion would shake you ... then you are not ready.

2) I'm very cautious discussing this with anyone -- especially medical personnel. Most people have uninformed opinions. Those in favor of the surgery usually know 1+ people who've had it done. Often, they're also uninformed, though, and usually convinced one type of surgery is the best.

I am a high risk patient, so I did extensive research before making a decision. I researched 8 surgeons and met with 4 before finding the doctor who was perfect for me. Finally, I'm ready & excited to tackle my morbid obesity. It's like getting married: you'll know when you're ready and when have met "the one."

My advice: ask yourself "Why do I want this surgery?" If your answer is not rock solid, you are not ready. When you are convinced this is the best solution for your obesity problem, then you are ready. But you need to get comfortable with your decision. Get an online "buddy" with a track record of success and someone you're compatible with. Ask her to help lead you down the path.

With your buddy you'll be ready ... to go for the gold!