NoRegrets

Hi, everyone. I'm not yet banded, but I'm here to learn as much as I can before I make a final decision on whether I will go through with the surgery or not. I have only discussed it with my doctor today. I have not yet talked to even my husband about it, and if I do it, I'll only be telling him and my doctor. I'm one of those people who hold their weight really well, so I'm 230 lbs, but most people put me at about 175 when guessing my weight. That's why I don't want to tell anyone. They'd just judge/criticize anyway. So, my bmi is 38, and I have asthma, high cholesterol, and depression (medicated and completely under control). So, I've left a message to make an appointment for a consultation to begin this process. At this point, I'm pretty sure I want to do it, but I need more info to be 100% sure. So, that's the short story... Happy Wednesday! :)Michelle (NoRegrets)

Hi, everyone! I'm still in the research stage, but I'm looking into Dr. Higa in Fresno, CA. Has anyone had him do their lapband surgery? I'd love any info you can give me! Thanks!:help:

Hi, everyone. I'm still in the research stages, but I went for my psych evaluation the other day, and now I'm a little unsure about what to do. I was planning to do the lap-band. My BMI is 38.6, and I have sleep apnea, high cholesterol, and depression (but with my meds, I'm fine). I chose the lap-band because I believed it was reversible and seemed less invasive. After talking with the psychologist, I learned that the doctor has a harder time removing a lapband than simply converting to roux en y, so he will generally do the latter if necessary. He said that the scar tissue, etc involved in removing the lap-band is major, and so it isn't easy to reverse. He also explained that the roux en y is reversible, as well. So, now I'm wondering if it wouldn't be better to just do the roux en y. The only downside I see so far is the extra day in the hospital and a little longer recovery period. You all had to make this very decision. Would you mind sharing with me what factors played into your final decision--why you chose the method you did? I'd really appreciate any input you can give me! Thanks! Michelle

Thank you for all of your help. I appreciate it! I haven't even looked at the sleeve. Not sure what it is, really. I'll check it out, too. The surgeon I'm meeting with is very well respected and specializes in roux en y and lap band. I don't think he has a bias between the two, but I got the impression that the psychologist did. The center I'm going to works as a team, so the psychologist, nutritionist, nurses and two surgeons meet every week and discuss all of their patients. I got the impression that the psychologist had a good idea what he was talking about, but I will still discuss all of the options with the surgeon when I see him. I'm really not sure which way to go. I know I need to do something, but that's as far as I am right now. The big pull of the lap band for me is the lower complication rate. I really like that. Any other thoughts or suggestions? Please feel free to add! Thanks! :)Michelle

Yes, that makes sense. I do appreciate your candidness. Thank you for responding. :)Michelle

Thanks for the response! Can you explain a little more what you mean about your age. I see you are 61, so are you just meaning that you don't heal as quickly as you get older? Thanks!

Hi! What was the reason you changed from wanting the band to RNY? I'm curious...