Hey, you have to do what is best for YOU... just be sure to check it all out and weigh the risks based on your own medical history and all sorts of things.

I checked into the lapband since it seems to be the safest, asked my doc about it about 3 years ago... he refused to even refer me, just flat out said "that's not for you" but he knows that I have problems healing from surgeries.

It never hurts to explore all your options... just thoroughly research it and hit not just medical websites... learn all you can, good and bad so you can make an informed decision that is right for you. Weigh your odds carefully. Maybe join one of the bariatric surgery groups here to talk to people who have had it done?

Mars, I didn't even think about joining a group on ds fro gastric bypass. I'm gonna do that for sure.

Why would anyone turn from you for considering surgery. FInd out what you can... we need to be commited to support each other as we go our individual journey's. Great to hear your sugars are ok

Jonjon, I guess that me being afraid that people would turn away form me because of deciding to have the surgery is a remnant of being in the "obese group" and most people there telling me that is the quiters way out. I'm not a quiter, in fact I have been fighting and fighting and fighting and if I am able to go through with the surgery I would have to fight even more afterwards. Thanks to you all for your support.

Well I for one don't think any the less of you, we all have to do what suits us and if you really want to do the bypass then I just know your group will be behind you. There is a very interesting group for gastric bypass people on DS which I am sure you will like. Just research the whole thing thoroughly and see if you can put up with the disadvantages but you are a strong person and I don't see why you shouldn't be successful. Love and hugs.

I know you will make the right choice for you. No one can make that for you. I have had 2 cousins that that bypass surgert=y and did pretty well. There are things that can go wrong in any type of surgery but they have improved on the bypass wurgery so much. Or maybe while you are at it research the lapband and compare the two on which is right for you. You should know we are here for you. You won't be shunned.

gastric bypass is an option I've decided against. but, by all means, if that's what you want to do, go for it! check it out anyway! good luck and let us know what you decide!!!

Please research the lap band, it is the safer surgery. I lost a friend who died 8 wks after her rny bypass (she had what al roker had). I wish she had the lap band instead.

The bypass surgery cannot really be fully reversed if you get too sick and it will lead to malnutrition because your the amount of surfaces in your intestines able to abosrb nutrients is shortened. I have read some nightmarish stories of folks dying because of health problems caused by the surgery.

I am also seriously considering the surgery - I researched it 9-10 yrs ago and decided not to, but now I'm back at that point. Talk to the bariatric doctor about which surgery is best for YOU. There are just as many problems with the lap as RNY - I am going in for my initial consultation in a couple of weeks.

I know what you mean about folks turning away when they hear you're thinking about surgery. If you've started researching, you know it's just as much work, if not more, to do this with surgery. My bariatric center here has a support group for the pre- and post-op people to share their stories - some even have online discussion groups -- look for those. I like being able to hear from other people that have been with the same surgeon I'll be going to - it's the best judge of him for me to see his success/ concerns / problems, etc. from "the horse's mouth"

Please feel free to contact me directly if you want to talk more and compare notes.......kfeer@hotmail.com

I have mixed feelings about the surgery for gastric bypass. I only know 3 people who have gone the gastric route... and they have all had serious complications. Not only that, but watching them eat a tiny thimble full of food and take pills to get the rest of their nutrients... and then be horribly sick for days and weeks... to me, it just doesn't seem like a healthy way to go about weight loss. I know a LOT of people have had great results from it, and for some its the only option, but my experience has only been negative. Just throwing in my two cents here.

Have you looked into any of the doctor sponsored medical weight loss programs? Not only are they less invasive, its cheaper than surgery. There is one here in Minnesota called Midwest Weight Control in Maple Grove, MN. (and they even accept insurance to pay part of the cost.) I am currently looking into that one. They not only address your caloric intake, they do a complete psychological profile, to determine your relationship with food, and help correct behaviors. In addition to this, they have nutritionists and trainers on staff that you meet with bi-weekly to help you in your weight loss success. To me, this seems like a better all over plan for weight loss because it addresses all the needs across the board- by helping give you a "map" to success for a lifetime, not just while you "diet". Plus, the program is overseen by an MD with a bariatric specialty. You have a monthly EKG and blood work (or per 50 lbs weight loss etc.)

Plus to me... people I have seen who have had the surgery, have all that hanging skin and they are usually "sickly" looking. I think its from poor nutrition due to the small amounts of food they are allowed to eat. I say take a look at the biggest loser... they work hard and get it off. I think that's the best option. I know its harder and takes longer, but I really believe learning to adjust our view/relationship with food, getting lots of exercise, and people to back you up, are the key! Again, just my two cents.

Have a great day everyone! :)