Michele asked me what a Lap band is. It is a type of bariatric surgery, done laparoscopically. This band fits around the intestine forming a fake, smaller stomach. Saline is injected in a port that cinches the band tighter - until the patient gets to the right "restriction" (in terms of how much she can eat). Unlike gastric bypass, nothing is removed, the surgery time is usually no more than an hour (mine was 35 minutes), and the recovery time is no more than 2-3 days (and even then, you're on your feet, you just need to take it easy). You lose weight slowly, @ 4-10 pounds a month if possible, though that varies with individuals.

I had this done in July, and I've so far lost the weight that I had gained over the last 2 years - probably about 50 pounds. I'm amazed at how much better I feel. I still have a long way to go before I get even close to my goal, but I'm making really great progress.