Question

[jerzeegurl 0]

What is the difference between Realize Band and Lap Band? Does one have better or quicker results than the other?

[Unforgettable 0]

They are different brand names for a gastric band. Theoretically they are supposed to do the same thing. There were some problems with the original Realize band creasing funny, causing an almond-shape versus a circle around the stomach. Realize has since released the Realize-C band which is supposed to have resolved that problem.

If I'm correct, I believe the Lap Band comes in 2 different sizes (?), whereas the Realize-C is only one standard size. Also, not all surgeons offer the realize-c as an option yet.

Do some research online to check out the differences - I believe both the Lap Band site and Realize site do a side-by-side "comparison" of the two products. Talk with your surgeon about the differences, pros and cons as well.

Good luck!

[Jodi_620 37]

Honestly, just the name. Realize does have the online support and claims to have slightly fewer slippage incidents but I am not sure how accurate that claim is.

[lndshark 0]

Realize bands suck. Just look at them, they look like complete ass.

Just my 2 cents

[Headhunter 6]

What is the difference between Realize Band and Lap Band? Does one have better or quicker results than the other?

Don't be too concerned with "quicker" results. Be concerned that you will be getting the RIGHT solution for YOU. And that doesn't always mena "fast".

There are some subtle and not-so-subtle differences between the Brands. But this is something that you need to discuss with your surgeon. He/She might have a preference, or have better luck with one over the other. It's not something that an individual patient can easily comment on; it is something that is more in the domain of an experienced surgeon who has observed the results of hundreds or thousands of installations.

HH

[KarenK 0]

Their ports are shaped a little differently (Realize has a lower profile and wider membrane), but they work exactly the same. I didn't even ask which one I was getting until after - I figured I would prefer the surgeon use whatever one he preferred since he was the expert.

I got the lapband version.

[pickles123 0]

I have been researching this for a while. There are differences and people swear by each one. I am not one to leave anything up to anyone even the surgeon; but this is one of those things that I think when they see inside they make the decision.

At the seminar I went to they had both of them there. They looked very similar. I didn't see the triangle flap thing I saw on some pictures of the Realize band. I did ask though if I had the Lapband could I have the low profile port of the Realize Band.(Don't know if I really can but they said so) They said yes. There are different stats that say you lose faster with one over the other but in the end they seem to equal out. If anyone else knows a reason to pick one over the other I would like to know also. Not just because you might have it and it works but why? I like facts if possible.

Thanks

[jerzeegurl 0]

Thank you all for your responses. This has been a huge help!