Aviv Ben-Meir, MD

I actually had my procedure done in 09, but this site won't let me review from that long ago.

I chose the Lap Band for surgical weight loss after deciding I didn't want the risk of dumping syndrome and knowing I still wanted to get pregnant. I didn't want to worry about not being able to get enough nutrients to a growing baby. The gastric sleeve was not yet available as an option.

After researching providers in my area, I scheduled a consultation with Dr. Ben-Meir. He had the best outcomes, hands-down of anyone in the Cleveland area (and really, all of Ohio).

As soon as I had my appointment with him, I knew I'd made the right decision. This man is truly the sweetest, most caring doc I've ever met. He immediately made me feel at ease, explained everything thoroughly, was patient, answered questions and never made me feel rushed.

The only negative is that you usually wait a while to see him once you're in the office itself. Bring a book. Honestly, I hate waiting for my docs. My time is valuable too. But in this case it is absolutely worth it. In fact, when he switched practices to over an hour away and I STILL make the drive for the follow ups.

One thing that is so amazing about him is that he works with you. He listens to what you want, makes suggestions, but never pressures you. A band requires a LOT of work to get to that sweet spot, and sometimes you slip. Never once did he make me feel bad that I'd gained a few pounds or anything like that. He is just incredible.

8 years later (I gained while pregnant with my son, so yes, I had the surgery 10 years ago, and successfully lost with it, but gained a lot back while my band was deflated) I'm still 140 pounds down and am looking to get the excess skin removed.

Pros? It works. I love that it is adjustable. I was able to tweak it until I found that sweet spot that allows me to eat but not too much. I love that fact.

Cons? It's work. You have to go regularly for follow ups. It's not like with a bypass or a sleeve where once you have the surgery you're done. You have to go to back for fills and adjustments fairly often, especially at first. Fills aren't covered by insurance, and they get costly.

Like any weight-loss surgery, you have to work the tool you're given. You can't just expect it to fall off and not come back. You can absolutely circumvent your band. You HAVE to follow the rules. But if you can commit to it, I love the freedom the band offers as far as customizing the level of restriction to what I need.

If I had to do it all again, I would do it in a heartbeat. I love my band!

Hi. I started this journey exactly one year ago. I was all ready and prepared. My insurance had no pre requirements. But the surgeon wanted me to see a counselor, by the time I found one and started seeing her Janurary rolled around. Dang insurance changed, so then I had to wait 6 months. I had to see the nutritionist every month & weigh in & make sure I was losing weight. So here I am, have the approval. But my nutritionist said now don't go below 195 or the insurance won't cover it. Well if I'm supposed to keep to the strict diet. I go see the Dr this morning for the pre op but now weigh 189. So I don't know. Yikes. My surgery date in November 20th. However I'm sorta freaking out. Everyone seems to think I don't need to do this because I've lost weight for the requirements. Now I feel as if I don't have support. So now I'm not sure now. Initially I planned on the bypass. I think I have decided to the sleeve if I go through with it instead. Scared & nervous. Help. Lol. I have been lurking here for months and have REALLY appreciated all your stories and updates. :)

Updated on 17 Nov 2015:
Ok, so here it is. Surgery day is tomorrow. I have decided to go with the sleeve. I just couldn't give up Ibuprofen. Prayers please. I'm not enjoying today for sure. lol