steph1967

I also agree with elcee, bands usually don't slip that easy and cause that major of an issue. They are meant to be maintained and usually show signs if they are slipping. I had my band put in 2008 and still go every 3 months just to make sure I am on track and everything is working as it should. I was in a major car accident in june flipping my SUV four times and my port was very sore and was having problems eating so I made an appointment the moment I returned from my vacation and my dr chose to remove my fluid and let things settle for a month then refilled and I am doing well. So making sure you are maintaining the band is key. My doctor said that is one of the major issues he sees with the band is people never return once they have lost the weight or have had it for awhile. I believe regular check ups is a key to my success of losing 230 pounds and keeping it off as well as keeping my band in working order.I hope you feel better soon,

My surgery was done out patient, I checked in at 6am had surgery at 7am and was released at noon. My mom however did have to stay for 3 days it was a requirement of her insurance. so it just depends. Also I think it has to do with how you tolerate the pain and how your body reacts as far as your vital signs.

In my opinion it was the best decision I ever made...would I do it again? most definately. would I recommend it absolutly ..but like others said it is a tool you have to be willing to give certain things up and stick with the new lifestyle it requires. I attend support group that is offered my my surgeon, I still go for regular check ups and fills, i still see the weight loss specialist who measures me and talks to me about diet often. I was banded 5/14/08 I was 381 lbs I am now 157 I went from wearing a size 30 jeans to a size 6 and a 4X top to a medium. it has been a long road but it is well worth it..

Different people have different effects from the band, it works for some and doesn't for others, it is a tool not a cure all, you have to have the mind set as well that you are determinded to lose and eat the right foods and amounts whether the band is filled or not. I have lost 220 lbs since i was banded almost 4 years ago, I have 10 lbs to go, I have never had a gain but i have been at a standstill or very slow losing process, has it been easy heck no. there are days i feel hungry but just have the mind set not to go grazing and find something to do to keep my mind off it. or drink some water to fill myself up. the band is there to help you and the rest is up to you and how much you want to get to where you want to be. You can do it...I know you can...

I have had my band for close to 4 years, I do not find that I can't drink as much as my pre banded days, I do not feel that I feel any more of the effects of alcohol I go out a couple times a month and usually drink girlie drinks, malibu rum, margaritas, etc..and I am very weight concious and keep up with my band so my band is at a level where i can only eat the recomended amount of food. I just think it depends on what you are drinking and how much you have ate and when compared to when you are drinking

I also am almost 4 year post banded. I feel very fortunate after reading some of the replies, that I have not suffered any long term side effects. There are certain foods that dont agree with me but I think that is normal.

Hi my name is Stephanie, I am new to this site but have been banded for almost 4 years. I could not be happier with the weight loss, I have lost about 229 lbs in the 4 years. I am very happy I did the band I feel much healthier, just wish now I could afford to have the skin removed so that I could feel I look as perfect as I would like. I look good in clothes but do not like to look at myself without. I have about 16 lbs to go til I can be considered normal weight. I do exercise but nothing seems to help. any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.