real difference between Realize band and LapBand?

[TeraDN 0]

Trying to decide which band to go with.

From what I gather the realize can hold more fill, but it takes longer to get to restriction.

So I am leaning towards the LapBand.

Which did you go with and why?

[LiveLoveLaugh 0]

I went with the lap-band since my doctor told me it gives more option for fills and unfills. In the long run it takes you to goal and keeps you there afterwards. I've heard that after 3-4 years Realize band patients start to gain or have no option for more fills once filled. Not sure if that's true or that my opinion is correct as I only know I have the Lap-Band 10cc and that is what I choose to get. Please anyone else know what the difference is and any Realize bandsters who can help with this subject. I'd really like to know the facts myself - Really from those who have the bands were speaking of....

[Suzdavis 0]

My surgery is scheduled for April 14 and my surgeon suggested the LapBand over the Realize band because of my size. I do have excess weight (about 100 lbs.) but not as much as some. He says for someone "smaller" he has better results from the LapBand not slipping.:huh2:

[laurenlee 1]

the old realize band was redesigned because of kinks in the band when filled. the revision looks great until you see it fill. my dr uses air to demonstrate. the lapband has these little pillowed sections that prevent kinking. it looks engineeringly right. (I know that isn't a word, but, it works.) i'm going with that one. good luck.

[TeraDN 0]

TY!

I think I will go for the LapBand AP. Seems to work for smaller heavy people, so I will go with that. I weigh 249 or so give or take 5 lbs, but I wear an 18/20. :thumbup: My sister is 206 and we wear the same size, go figure.:eek:

Anyway, off topic, I know. Thanks again....

[AliciaA122 24]

I’ve been wondering about this myself. There is some good info (and opinions) in the Realize band forum. You may want to check that out.

I plan on deferring to my surgeon, when I eventually and hopefully get to that point. But, from what I heard them say at the seminar it’s based on patient opinion… they’ll give you what you ask for. So, I don’t know!

[TeraDN 0]

Yeah my surgeon said it was 150 more for the realize band, and that they usually get people asking for one or the other.

[adamsmom 4]

I chose LapBand because those "pillows" allow the band to conform to your body and stomach shape--all of us have slight variations of size and shape. Realize is one size/shape for all.

[Larry 0]

I was banded on October 27th 2008, from my discussions with my surgeon the main difference is in the company the band is made by. The 10cc lapband was placed in my surgery, so far I've had 2 fills totalling 3cc's and the results I've had so far have been nothing short of incredible. I weighed 386 pounds at my first appointment with my surgeon on Aug 21st, had surgery Oct. 27th, as of my last follow up in March 2009, I have lost 102 pounds and am now down to 284 and still dropping.

[AliciaA122 24]

Wow Larry! That's phenomenal. 102 pounds in 5 months?! Good for you!

[TeraDN 0]

Larry!!!! Great Job!!! I so hope I loose like that. Keep it up!:smile2: