Whats the difference between controlling what you eat vs having lap band surgery?

The difference is permanent weight loss and not gaining it back. With Lap-band I eat a small amount (of anything I want) and feel full. When dieting I never really felt full. The band is placed high on your stomach where the nerves are that signal when your stomach is full. So just by it being there you can control your appetite. I don't have to struggle, I simply eat a small portion of food & am satisfied. Even though I can eat virtually any food I like, I tend to eat healthy choices now just because I like it. Surgery is not for everyone, but don't put down those that need it. The cost was covered by insurance and I only see the doctor about twice a year.