I was able to compare the two types of bands side by side and I really liked the Realize band much better. The band was wider, so I felt safer about the possibility of a slip. The inside of the band, the "balloons" were also quite noticeably softer to the touch compared to the LAP-BAND®. I felt much more comfortable about that being against my stomach for years to come. Also, I've read, but I don't know this to be a fact, that the Realize Band may have fewer issues with food getting stuck. The port seemed to be the same height to me, but the LAP-BAND® port was shaped like a cone, and the Realize Band was flat. I much preferred the way the port was attached to the muscle by the Realize Band, because it seems to be much more secure with the hooks, and it looks like it'll be more comfortable in the long run with the flat top. My doctor will use either band, and he leaves it up to the patient to decide. I was banded last week, and I have no hunger issues yet, and I feel great.
__________________ Surgery - September 2008 55 pounds gone - 20 pounds to goal If you lack the courage to start, you have already finished. |