Many patients who see us in consultation are candidates for either Gastric Bypass or the LAP-BAND®  surgery. In such cases, should the patient undergo gastric bypass or  LAP-BAND® surgery?
 
How is this decision made?

Some patients find it difficult to decide which procedure is right for them. This can be a difficult decision and we encourage you to take your time and do your research.  Other things that may help you make your decision include:  attending support group meetings, talking with past patients, meeting with the dietitian or surgeon and discussing your concerns.

There will be times when you may not have a choice:

*Certain insurance companies will only pay for certain procedures, or

*Certain medical conditions are contra-indicated with certain procedures

With consideration to the above listed suggestions and issues, if you still are having difficulty deciding, consider the following:

*If you live far away from the surgeon, will it be difficult to have adjustments?

*Do you have a “sweet tooth?”  You will have less success with the LAP-BAND®
*Are you a heavy snacker?  You may have less success with the LAP-BAND®
*Are you really scared of the Gastric Bypass? The LAP-BAND® may be a better choice.

The LAP-BAND® requires tremendous commitment and self control. If you chose to eat unhealthy, high fat and high sugar foods, it will be very difficult to lose weight. To help patients make their own best decision about which procedure they should undergo, we offer this table: