Lap Band or Gastric Bypass??

I had my ostomy taken down about 13 happy years ago due to diverticulosis. No major issues since and I'm grateful. 13 years later, my doctor tells me I have diabetes and I need to diet and lose 40 lbs. He tells me my kidneys are working fine now, but over time if they spill too much protein, I can be looking at getting on dialysis sooner than later. He recommends I get a gastric bypass or a Lap Band procedure that would end diabetes and any potential damage to my organs. The only concern I have is he had told me to tell the specialist that does the gastric or Lap Band procedure that I had a lot of scar tissue from my prior ostomy surgery. Anyone have experience with this? My senses tell me I should choose the Lap Band because gastric bypass seems like too much surgery.

Alot of surgeries are done by keyhole now, the lap band isn't permanent and it only works for some people if you're the kind of person who grazes all day it may not work. Obviously the gastric bypass is permanent the reading I have done on it and it could be different where you are from is that the gastric sleeve is what they prefer to do for people with your medical history. This can be done by keyhole and will have a remarkable effect on your diabetes. I have a friend who now has no problem with diabetes after 17 years. Good luck

Star

As a nurse, I have cared for several patients with both. I don't see a whole lot of long-term success with either surgery. The Lap band is the safest, but several coworkers have had it done and gained the weight back regardless. I have observed many patients with the Gastric bypass that have suffered many severe complications. Please forgive me, but most doctors require you to be at least 100 pounds overweight before they even consider Lap band or Gastric surgery. Have you tried exercise and a diabetic diet? Just walking is great for controlling DM. You will continue to burn carbs up to 2 hours after you stop exercising and will lose weight also. I know it is very hard, but a lifestyle change, diet, and exercise is a safe and sure way to control your DM. Talking to a dietician and physical therapist.
Good luck.
Eddie

I had gastric bypass in 2005 and then the colostomy in 2011.
While it cures diabetes, it is not without its other side effects. Malabsorption, anemia, vitamin deficiencies. It makes it hard to medicate other conditions.
Be sure to weigh your options fully before making a decision.
It is not an easy lifestyle.
If you want to know more, drop me an email.