Hi, I was a member of this board earlier in the year when I was deciding what type of surgery to pursue. I had an open DS on 7/11/05. I am very happy with my choice and have been doing quite well.
If you are interested in learning more about the DS, I would suggest you go to www.duodenalswitch.com. There are several regular Canadian posters, although most of them came to the states for their DS as I understand it is very difficult to get this surgery in Canada with very long waiting lists.
Since my surgery, I've lost 92 pounds and I continue to lose.
I decided against the band because it wasn't right for me. YMMV.
Lots of luck in your decision making.
Sharon
Open DS 7/11/05
Dr. Peters
272/180/140