So how do they decide?

[onikenbai 33]

I forgot to ask the surgeon when I met with her, and the patient intake lady didn't know... How do they choose which size band to put in you? I know my clinic uses both the small and the large Allergen bands, and I just wondered what were the determining factors? Stomach size? Amount of weight you need to lose? From the pictures it looks like the small size gets more restriction overall, even though it actually holds less Fluid.

Inquiring minds want to know!

[Padanelle 2]

Good question. I've been wondering the same thing. My surgeon gave me a choice between Lap-Band or Realize, but not on size. I think it has to do with your size and also the positioning of other organs/parts when they do the surgery.

[JulieM. 0]

I talked to my doctor about that very thing today. I found out that I have the 14cc band. He said that is the standard band now. They used to have two smaller ones but since they have updated the bands they no longer use those. The old ones are the ones they use in Mexico when you get banded there. So the standard size is 14cc allergen band and then they have a large ( not sure the cc on it).

[Padanelle 2]

I talked to my doctor about that very thing today. I found out that I have the 14cc band. He said that is the standard band now. They used to have two smaller ones but since they have updated the bands they no longer use those. The old ones are the ones they use in Mexico when you get banded there. So the standard size is 14cc allergen band and then they have a large ( not sure the cc on it).

Actually, the Standard is 10cc, the Large is 14cc.

[RestlessMonkey 7]

They use whichever fits best! Just like you choose a pair of pants or a shirt...they choose which will go around your stomach most easily; which is the "best" for you.

[onikenbai 33]

They use whichever fits best! Just like you choose a pair of pants....

Oooh, I hope there are no pleats... those things are just so darn unflattering. I want a flattering band :thumbup:

[RestlessMonkey 7]

Oooh, I hope there are no pleats... those things are just so darn unflattering. I want a flattering band :thumbup:

No pleats, no zipper, no bell bottoms (ok I AM 54)

[Grandma26 1]

yeah, but what about the platform shoes!!! lol

(I am a little older that 54)!! lol

[RestlessMonkey 7]

yeah, but what about the platform shoes!!! lol

(I am a little older that 54)!! lol

unfortunately most insurance policies will NOT pay for the platform shoes. However if you're self pay, you can negotiate! :thumbup:

[JaffreyChick 1]

I asked that very same question at my LAST PRE OP visit today.

They don't know until they get in there.

They slide a guide behind the stomach and then wrap it around. That tells them the size that they need.

It is better to be banded too large than to be banded too small.

We spent most of the visit talking about my compromised immune system and less about band size. Seems either chemo has left me with an odd immune system or maybe I never had a good one.

But I've been getting IVIG treatments and we're all thinking positive thoughts.

My risk of infection is much higher than the norm, but I've had a chemo port with no problems so I'm thinking this won't be any big deal either.

Cause if the band gets infected -- out it comes and I'm "back to the way God made you" -- no second chances.

However, a port infection is fixable.

Keep your fingers crossed for me. Surgery is Aug. 20.

[TSB 1]

Actually, the Standard is 10cc, the Large is 14cc.

My Doc advised that a 14cc would typically be used in a very large male, not just in terms of weight, but in terms of frame size. I was told prior to surgery they would likely install the 10cc for me, but that they make that call during surgery.

[RestlessMonkey 7]

Hmmm I'm 5'5" and female, but I did weigh 373 on surgery day. I think they just use whatever they feel is appropriate.

[incolorado 1]

I was told I would be getting the smaller one and a low-profile port....because I carry most of my weight in my lower half. :thumbup: