Lapband or Gastric Bypass

[Irish4Ever 0]

I am a 45 year old male who played college football. I have total knee replacements in both knees. When active, my optimal weight was between 210 and 220 pounds. My body fat percentage averaged 15 percent as measured by Water. I currently weigh 325 pounds with a BMI of 52%. I am currently disabled and on Medicare. I have an appointment with a Bariatric doctor this week to discuss if I should have lapband or gastric bypass surgery. Due to my knee limitations and prolonged disability, I am concerned about not being able to maintain a healthy weight long term with the lapband and the possibility of eventually getting a gastric bypass. I would appreciate any and all opinions which surgery I should favor before meeting with my doctor. Thank you.

[Kellster 1]

In my opinion, Lap-Band is better for long-term results, specifically because you can adjust it after the surgery. Bypass is a one-time deal and your digestive tract is forever changed. Bypass works based on the premise that your body will not be absorbing the calories (and essential nutrients). LB works by restricting the size of your stomach - but you can still absorb nutrients and calories naturally. Granted, with LB and any other WLS you have to stick to the guidelines, follow your recommended nutrition intake, and change your lifestyle to be healthier. You can gain the weight back with any surgery you choose if you don't follow the rules. For me, the winning factors that led me to choose LB are:

*FAR less invasive/risky procedure - LB has a much lower morbidity rate

*Faster recovery - I can be back to work in the next day or two

*Maintains the integrity of my natural digestive tract - less risk of malnutrition and pregnancy is not limited

*Somewhat slower weight loss = healthier, with hopefully less loose skin

*Potentially can be reversed if there are complications in the future

*Can be adjusted to make the band tighter or looser (Bypass can not be adjusted and rarely can be reversed - if you "eat through" your Bypass it is hard to go back)

I recommend reading up on this website and reading books and finding out everything you can to make your decision. It all comes down to what you want and what is right for you.

Good luck!!