Having started to gain weight shortly after his high school days, Joseph, 24, came to TopSurgeons in search of answers.

Joseph, who at one time weighed 425 pounds before having Lap Band surgery, had the procedure done over a month ago and reports his weight is now down to 376 pounds. "I felt like this was one of the better procedures for me to have done," Joseph said. According to Joseph, the procedure only kept him out of work for three days, with limited complications.

Joseph's problems with weight gain began when his high school football playing days had ended and his eating habits were not that great.

"I felt like this was a good time to do it (Lap Band surgery)," Joseph remarked. He noted that the diets he tried would work for a week or so, then it turned into a stalemate and he stopped losing weight, even with exercise and water intake.

When Joseph first came to TopSurgeons, he notes he did not know much about the Lap Band procedure. "My mom researched it for me and the staff here was wonderful," Joseph commented. "I felt from that point on it was the right thing to do. The staff was great and they have a lot of follow ups following the surgery. They make sure you are on schedule and they are very endearing."

Now able to fit in clothes he hadn't worn for years, Joseph says his ultimate goal is to get down to around 230-250 pounds.

"My day tasks at work are now a lot easier," Joseph said.

Joseph believes that Lap Band surgery is better than other similar procedures people may try because it is not as invasive and is a lot easier to maintain with adjustments. "You lose the weight gradually with the Lap Band," Joseph added.

With his football playing days behind him, Joseph has tackled his weight loss issues and become a healthier and happier person along the way.

For further Lap Band information, call 1-800-953-5000.