Dr. Kirshenbaum - LAP-BAND® or Realize Band?

I am planning on having Dr. K do my surgery. On his website it says he offers both the Lap and the Realize bands. Is there an advantage getting one over the other? Is it easier to find local (I'm in Vancouver, WA, a suburb of Portland) fills? Is one better than the other?

Thanks,

Michelle

Compare Adjustable Gastric Bands - LAP-BAND vs. REALIZE Band

The link above may help!

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Banded 5-27-08
1st Fill: 6-10-08 (4cc)
2nd Fill: 7-1-08 (1.8cc)
3rd Fill: 7-17-08 (0.6cc)
4th Fill: 8-4-08 (0.5cc)
UnFill: 10-14-08 (6.4cc)
5th Fill: 10-28-08 (5cc)
Total: 5.5cc
172/148/105-110

My doctor offers both and based on reading, I am leaning towards the Realize band. He decides once he sees you inside though, so I really get no say.

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Lacey
this life of mine, life with a lapband, my food diary

Banded - 7/25/08 - TRICARE Prime, Dr. Nye, Baptist Hospital, Pensacola, FL
LAP-BAND® AP Standard 10cc

I have the realize band, and I chose it because the band it a bit wider. I thought it might be a bit better for me I need all the restriction I can get! I talked with my surgeon and he said he liked it better because of the port. The port has prongs that clip into the body verses the lab band port which as to be stitched into place. My doc said that the clips tend to stay inplace better over time vs. stitches. I have little to no pain from the metal prongs. Another plus is the realize website! I love it! I signed up and keep track of everything there. My surgeon and look at it as well if he chooses to monitor my progress. It is so well designed and easy to use. Hope this helps and best of luck!

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Rachelle (Raeband)