Pandagirl,
Do not let the Drs, Dieticians, or anyone else make a decision for you! They do not have to live with the decision for the rest of their lives! I had the choice of gastric bypass through my insurance and almost went through with it last year, but family asked me not to.
I had my band put in last week (8/16) and was self pay, through a Dr who didnt question my decisions.
I am 5-8.5 and 359 (at my consultation appt), my Dr said if my issue was just eating too much, then the band would provide the needed restriction, without the moving and cutting of instestine and stomach! He said if you "graze" then this may not be the right tool.
So far, so good. Not even hungry, I think I am down about 10 lbs. It was out patient surgery and I was back to work 3 days later.
Hang in there and dont let them sway you if this is procedure you want done.
Take Care,
Lee Ann
San Jose, CA.