rhowell855

I am scheduled for either Lap Band or VSG in two weeks, June 28,2010. At first I was leaning towards the Lap Band, however the more research I did the less appealing I found this. I noticed the various complications which may arise and they didn't seem inviting. Moreover, being a male, my abdominal fat is intramuscular versus subcutaneous and the idea of having the access port in anyway visible under the skin is not appealing in the least. Then to find out about the various complications which may occur down the road has also made me hesitant. I have seen various videos of the VSG on you tube and it looks pretty straightforward. I haven't found any long term studies regarding the VSG. I like the idea of not having to have adjustments done periodically. It appears, once the VSG is done that is it. There is no going back. So, why should I choose the VSG over the lap band? I would like to hear from those that faced this choice. Since I don't have insurance, due to pre-existing conditions, I have to pay out of my pocket and the difference between the two isn't all that much, relatively speaking, please help with some insight. Thanks

Having researched the various alternatives I have decided on the VSG. I see all sorts of possible complications from the lap band. My self image tells me that I am not that fat. The mirror tells me otherwise. I discovered that when most overweight people tie their shoes the knot ends up on the inside of the shoe due to having to cross the legs to make the knot. My BMI is like 42. I don't want to go through the hassle of having to have the band adjusted periodically. Yet I definitely don't want to be the 1 or 2% who end up facing my creator on the operating table. However, if God wants to take me home then, so be it. Over the past few weeks having endured a diet of protein shakes the thought of not being able to chow down on a nice raw prime rib or even a Whopper with cheese really sucks. Will spending the $$$$ be worth it in the long run? I am sure it will be. However, my daughter, is very scared the her daddy will not me alive after the surgery. (Oh, I am getting the surgery done here in Orange County California) Any assurance would be appreciated. Thanks