Lap Band or Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

deleki · February 16, 2009

I live in Houston and am wondering who the closest and best Dr in Mexico is? Also I weigh 182 and want to lose 50 lbs. Which surgery is best for me-- my BMI is 30.4. I understand I can use Fills USA b/cause they coordinate with Mexican Drs. I have also been told my BMI is not high enough for surgery--I have alot of diabetes in my family on both sides--my blood sugar is ok now but I worry in future years.

I would love any/all responses(good or bad) with info to make decision

Thanks!! Debbie

queendeb811@yahoo.com

Jachut · February 16, 2009

There's pros and cons of both. Lapbands can be tricky things, true, dangerous complications are a low percentage but many more people find their bands fickle and finicky and hard to get restriction right. But many, like me, find them the perfect tool, trouble free and workign exactly how they are supposed to. And very very successful.

The sleeve appears to have less long term complications - it cant slip or erode and there can be less discomfort involved with eating, becuase you dont have a stoma for things to get stuck in. The possible complications after surgery exist though and a sleever would be better able to explain them to you.

For a BMI of 30? I'd go a band. I dont know why, I just cant get my head around removing part of your stomach unless you have a REALLY serious weight problem to justify such drastic action. But that's just a feeling, its not based on anything really, and I cant substantiate it. I simply believe I'd try a band first as it actually has extremely good statistics for lower BMI patients (which is why they will band from 30 in Australia). It appears that it is a bit less successful for higher BMI's as people dont tend to get all their weight off. But if you're only just obese and can exercise, and you dont have inches of fat around your actual stomach to muck up your restriction as you lose it, you have a good chance of doing well.

However - in Australia, aftercare is very easy. its not costly to have your band filled, you dont have to travel far etc. If you are not confident that you can afford to be filled whenever you need it, that you can see a doctor whenever you want to, then the sleeve is something to think about.

Just Jeff · February 18, 2009

It is not an easy decision to make. I would consult with your surgeon and have them explain the differences in the procedures. I would get his opinion for the procedure that would benifit you the most. Good Luck!