I went for a bypass because I know that a band wouldn't have worked for me. Why would I want a de-fill so that a band wont work, I don't want to regain my fat. A bypass is for life and I want to be slim and healthy for life so suits me fine. If you eat a good healthy diet, plenty of protein, some carbs and veg etc. and take a couple of vitamins, iron and a calcium tablet each day there is no problem with the absorption thing. I'm the healthiest I've been for 30 years now since my op last November and I wouldn't change a thing.
As well as all the brilliant success stories I've heard about bands I have also heard lots of stories of failure too with people being able to cheat their bands and people having de-fills when they go on holiday etc. I love the fact that I can't eat very high fat and sugary foods, neither of which are healthy anyway. With a bypass you start losing straight away too, with a band you have to have fills to find the right level of restriction for you. I just couldn't be faffing around having to make appointments and traveling to and from hospital for fills all the time.
At the initial seminar at St. Georges, Tooting that I went to we were also told that a band only lasts for 10 years before it has to be removed and changed for a new one which is something to consider too.
When I go out for dinner, which is at least once a week, I eat the same food as my husband/friends, just a toddlers portion instead. Or I choose one of the lovely starters that are usually on offer. I enjoy a glass of wine and follow my meal with a coffee and I really don't feel any different from anyone else. I've never ever come across any problems in restaurants with them refusing to serve me just a starter or when there's good choice, a childrens meal. At carverys I always have a childrens meal which is the same but smaller and half the price.
I would say, as a bypasser, go with the bypass, I know I'm biased because that's what I had but the short term liquid, puree and soft food stages for 6-8 weeks are well worth being slim and healthy for the rest of your life.
I agree that your bank account will take a bit of a battering though. I absolutely love all the beautiful new clothes, knee high boots and gorgeous underwear I can now go to any shop and buy. I'd do it again and again, and my only regret is that I didn't do it 10 years ago.
Good luck with whatever you choose to do.
Kate x
