Redi

Hi Margaret. I'm from Houston but have family in San Antonio. I was told a Dr. Rincon is someone I should talk to. Do you mind telling me how much Dr. Wright charges? I will be self pay and am looking for someone outside of Houston who may be under $15,000.

Just browsing for lapband information, experiences and ran across the talk about the vertical gastrectomy. Does anyone know of a surgeon who performs this procedure closer to Texas than either the east or west coast? Thanks.

I have a question about Barrett's Esophagus. Has anyone had a problem with Barrett's and the band? My possible surgeon said it should be ok. But now the gatroenterologist has me worried. If I already have a problem with my esophagus, am I taking a chance with the band of further irritation of the esophagus.

Jachut and Ddiedre, thank you so much for your replies. I understand that the results aren't in yet for the actual longevity of the band. And I don't have a problem with implanted artificial devices. I actually had a porta-cath for about a year about 20 years ago when I was being treated for cancer. I am just the type of person who tries to look at all the options and all the information before I make a decision. Sometimes I over-analyze to my own detriment. Anyway, this site is a wealth of very good information and I am so glad I found it. Thanks again, guys.

Just curious. Has anyone been told how long the band will last assuming no complications. I know there not a long history to refer to yet, but given current life spans, these bands may have to last decades for some people. Is it assumed that they will have to be replaced at some point in time. Trying to get as much info on which to base my decision of to band or not to band.. Thanks.

Does anyone know how long the band will last? I mean will it last 20 or 30 years? Does it eventually need to be replaced?

Hi I haven't been banded yet - still researching. How long can I expect the band to last, assuming no problems?

Hi. I haven't been banded yet. Still trying to decide. I will be a self pay if I go this route. Does anyone have any experience with a Dr. Rincon in San Antonio? If I go with a doctor outside of Houston, does anyone know of a doctor here in Houston who will do my fills. Thanks. I've been reading here for a couple of months and find this website very informative. Redi