Has anyone here done any research regarding gastric bypass or the lapbelt surgery? I am seriously considering one or the other and would love to hear from someone that has gone through the procedure.
I have experience in that area! 3 1/2 years ago I had the LapBand. I lost about 80 pounds in 6 months. The only complaint I have is that my band was adjusted too tight and I had to have it emptied. I have gained back about 20 pounds. I'm going back to the Dr to have it filled in a couple weeks. Overall, I am very happy with it.
I think it's a personal choice. Gastric Bypass causes rapid weight loss but comes with a few too many responibilities for me. Vitamin replacement for the rest of my life? Not for me, not reversible, not for me. Dumping? Not for me. The reason I chose LapBand was easy. It's reversible, carries much less risk, no dumping, and is adjustable as long as you have it. I researched hours before I decided. It comes with risk just like every procedure has, but seemed more "fixable" to me than GB. Again, it's a personal choice. Research, go to seminars, see surgeons (more than one). Do your home work.
Elle
I just recently had gatric bypass (August 14th) and so far so good. The first poster talks about supplements and replacements but I don't think she has all the facts. I have put over three years into research, doctors, seminars, etc. and came to the conclusion that GB is the safest and most effective choice.
The doctor I went to for the surgery is one of the best in California. He is adamant that you don't have to be on supplements for the rest of your life, but rather, that you should get your nutrients from eating a healthy diet. They do want you to take a multi-vitamin with iron, and a calcium citrate pill, which as a woman, are probably good to take anyways.
The comment about dumping is partly true, but only when you eat something you shouldn't have eaten. Your body is telling you that's not good for you. It has only happened to me once when I thought I could replace the lemon ice dessert they gave me in the hospital with rainbow sherbert!
The decision to have surgery is a big one, but one I felt had to be made. About five days after surgery an article came out on msn health that talked about long term studies show the surgery increases life span and decreases the risk of several diseases, one of them being diabetes by 92%! As a mother of two I think it's my responsibility to be around as long as possible!
If you get into the process, you will learn a lot along the way. It's not like you tell your doctor I want this surgery and he does it. You have to first be a healthy candidate with a BMI of 40 or above, or 35 and above with a co-morbidity like sleep apnea or diabetes, etc. Then begins all of the seminars, appointments with psychologists, nutritionists, etc.
I have lost 17 pounds so far and I am really looking forward to the next several months to start reaping the benefits!
Good luck with whatever you decide to do.
I have no FIRSTHAND experience, but my mom had the gastric bypass April 2006, after a few years of research. She went from a high of 304 to a current 165. Her breathing problems are gone, her sleep apnea is gone, her blood pressure is down. Her appetite is down. She is more than thrilled that she can play with my kids, which was a major motivator for her. She goes hiking and biking. She travels. She is just all-around much happier.
She does have to watch what she eats...lots of trial and error, but according to her, the benefits far outweigh any negatives.
I wish you luck and success in your journey!
Good for you for maing a decision to improve your health! 
I certainly hope I didn't offend. . .As far as the vitamin replacement. . .that is just what I was told by the surgeon I used. I'm sure every case is different. Some people tolerate things better than others. It's certainly a personal choice, that's just what caused me to make my choice. All of my co-morbities are gone! I feel so much better.
17# is great! Many wished for continued success!
elle
My SIL had GB, and I've known many who have had it. There have been so many complications, it is unreal. And she has been following doctor's instructions. She did lose a lot of weight, now the battle is to keep her body from malnourishing, as she has a hard time eating, and has had issues with her liver and other digestive organs. Unless I was in imminent danger of dying from an obesity-related illness, I would keep trying other methods.
I am overweight, but in excellent health otherwise, so I just keep working on better eating habits, portion sizes, adding activity into my daily routine and dealing with my unhealthy mental attitude towards food. As long as I am making progress, even baby steps, I'd rather work on changing my habits, rather than having them changed for me. YMMV.
If I did get to a point that my health was compromised and it was either do something drastic or die, I think I would try lapband before GB. The reversibility factor is key, as well as not bypassing any part of the digestive system or removing parts. In my nursing classes and in clinical practice, I've learned that the parts are all there for a reason. They work together. Bypassing any parts alters the way your body can absorb nutrients. You body may not agree with that, as my SIL's body could not. JMHO.
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