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Bariatric Surgery/Which surgery is best?

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Expert: - 12/17/2007


Question
I am 42yo 250# and 5'2.  I am researching which surgery would be best for me.  I don't have any major health issues (yet) except pain in my feet when I walk and RLS. I was told that with lap band I have to stay away from spicy food (Live in Louisiana!!) and also alcohol.  Is this true and if so please let me know which surgery is best.

Answer
Karen,
I am not familiar with a prohibition against spices after Gastric Band, but it is very important for you to follow all the advice of your surgeon so I would take that factor seriously.  It really is a good idea to stay away from alcohol after any bariatric surgical procedure.

I truly don't have an opinion about which operation is best - I don't think there is one "best" for every patient.  Based on the information you've sent I believe you should do well with a Band or a Gastric Bypass.  I think it is great that you are thinking about this whole question seriously and carefully.  I recommend you talk to your surgeon about these options, and if he/she does not do gastric bypass then I suggest you meet with a surgeon who does both types of surgery to be sure and get a balanced opinion.

Best of luck!

Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer

John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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