jsvajda

I think you need to, pardon the expression, trust your gut. If you feel that the sleeve is too drastic for you and the band is what makes you more comfortable, then that's what you should do. I had several surgeons tell me that the sleeve would give me "more bang for my buck" (yeah, one actually used that phrase) but I just didn't feel fully comfortable with it. So I found a surgeon who was on my team and not only listened to my concerns, but walked me through every possible issue that he was aware of and how they could be managed. I walked into my surgery as confident as I think a person could have been. I love visiting my doctor for adjustments - he and his team are some of the best supporters I have and are always looking out for me. If you don't feel that your surgeon has your best interests at heart then maybe you should find a new one. I know that it's hard to reconcile how much time and money you've already invested into this procedure, but you have to feel that your surgeon and the team are backing you 100% because you see them pretty much every month and they are the folks who should be encouraging you, not tearing you down. I think every surgeon has their own preferred procedure for various reasons. Some, I'm sure, do like doing a "cut and run" with the sleeve. Others may prefer the band because of the return visits (and the money that comes with each visit). My surgeon told me that he just likes helping people get healthier and loves to see their progress no matter what procedure they chose and that's one of the many reasons I went with him. You've got to do what you feel is best for you. And your family, your friends, and the folks on this board will support you no matter what you end up choosing to do. Cheers - Jen

Good luck! I hope all goes well for you.