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You only fail when you give up. You clearly haven't given up. So, this isn't failure, it's a set back. I felt like a failure as well, I lost a decent amount of weight, then that was it, gained and lost, over and over. For 5 years. I stopped going in for check ups, etc, because I didn't' want to be "that patient" that failed with the band. Guess what. My surgeon not only laughed off my "failure" but advised me that the band was over hyped and that my results were typical. I still have a long way to go, that's why I'm having Band to Bypass revision in a few days. Just remember not to beat yourself up over falling down. Just get back up, dust yourself off, dry your eyes and get back on the path.

I mentioned before that Lexie, my only friend I've told about me getting bariatric surgery, told me that she heard the "sleeve" was better than the "band." My gastroenterologist said the same thing and wanted me to look into it and talk to the surgeon about the sleeve option. I mentioned it to the counselor today and she briefly said that she sees very few Gastric Bypass patients any more as most patients are choosing the band or the sleeve. She said it's been 50/50 on band vs. sleeve patients. She admitted that there's been more WL issues with the band patients (slower loss, not any loss, and band failure) in HER practice but she was quick to state that it doesn't mean that it isn't good and won't work. She simply said that in her practice there that the sleeved patients lose weight faster and have fewer WL issues apparently. She agreed with my gastro's advice in speaking with the surgeon and deciding what would be best for me. She told me to research both, have pros and cons, and analyze the options. Then have a list of questions for the surgeon when meeting with him. I planned to do that any way and I didn't get the feeling she was pushing sleeve. I think she was being very honest with me about her experience with both sets of patients which I appreciate. Here's my initial PRO/CON list for Sleeve and Band... (after I research more, I'll likely update and/or change and fix my list!) SLEEVE Pros: 1. One surgery, no "fills" (so I won't need to tote my toddler with me in for regular fills.) 2. Decrease in "ghrelin" hormone that induces hunger due to stomach portion removal 3. Faster weight loss (more immediate results) 4. No "bandster hell" 5. Much higher success rate associated with this procedure. 6. My friend and one of my dr's recommended this procedure and thought it might be the better option for me. Cons: 1. No way to fix or reverse at all 2. Staples may pop, cause leaking, or fail 3. No long term data including effects on pregnancies 4. There is still a possibility/likelihood that the sleeve will stretch out and may need revision later. 5. Hernias apparently more common with this procedure lately. 6. I haven't researched the dietary guidelines post op so I have no idea what the longterm eating management includes. (Maybe I'll research that next and do a post on the differences of that.) BAND Pros: 1. Reversible/removable 2. No removal of anything 3. Necessary dr appt followup (with fills) will cause constant analyzing of program/plan and communication with surgeon 4. As I need it, I can go in and get it adjusted tighter to meet my needs. 5. Two doctors recommended this procedure over sleeve or GB for me due to my medical history. Cons: 1. Possibility of infection of band OR port 2. Regular followup and fill appointments 3. Bandster Hell and the months it will take to get to Sweet Spot. 4. Possibility of necessary revision to sleeve or whatever..(have read several posts online of 3 and 4 year post banders going in for gastric bypass, sleeve, etc.) 5. May not solve my hunger issue. 6. Have heard from more than one person that as they got closer to goal- their port site or actual port became more visible- yikes! 7. Over fills.. this sort of worries me. I don't want to get overzealous and get over filled and then have to race back in to get unfilled and then wait weeks to get filled again. 8. The waiting between fills. I understand why it is set up that way but it doesn't mean I have to like it. This is just my preliminary thoughts on both. I'm not an expert, I haven't decided yet, and I don't even know if the surgeon will think I'm a candidate for the sleeve. I'm starting to consider it as an option though. I've got some research to do.

Hey there, I have a question....I am also back at 1 1/2 yrs out. lost 45lbs, had major back surgery in January so 6 months of no or little exercise. Thank goodnes for the band. I had a weird problem. I think I need to have a little taken out of the band but I am scared. If I eat three hours before bed and it is not practically liquid, I wake up choking, not sick though, for I can get water down easy. I try real hard not to do that.I am now really aware of what I am eating, definatly protein. I cannot eat in the early morn so I have a warm protein drink, the warmth seems to open the band. If I have some removed I am worried that I will be able to get too much in. I finally got filled to what I felt was the right amount. I just hate choking and figure it is really a must to pay attention and not eat meat that is not ground, or anything too heavy at dinner. I have stayed at this weight, otherwise without the band and a surgery( had 7 knee replacement revision in 5 years) why I gained so much, I would surely have gained again. I have not read of anyone being maybe overfilled and choking and or coughing during the night..... Anyone hear??? Info would be great. Debra

Congratulations @BypassDiva2023. I’m so glad you’ve finally had your revision surgery. Praying for a much smoother journey for you this time. NSAIDS are always on the forever no list post surgery. However, some surgeons do allow their use after a period of time with a sleeve which may be why you are surprised with the instruction with your bypass. My surgeon allowed me to have them after two years because I didn’t take them regularly but he still gave me strict instructions: half dose & not consecutive days. The swallowing pill advice seems to be varied across surgeons & surgeries. Did the same surgeon do your bypass as sleeve? Maybe they’re treading more carefully because of your history.

Hi Jules! I had much the same experience as you, I was banded in 2008 and spent the past several years throwing up daily, no fun! I too have a young child (turned 1 June 11th) and my pregnancy took a toll on my band. I had band revision in August and then band to bypass on May 21st. It has been like a rebirth. I feel like I have to work harder to keep myself on track because of the years of band habits but I has been great. No more gurgling and sliming, I feel normal again Miri

I revised to RNY. I had reflux with the band so it was a no brainer to go to RNY. I use Vitamin Patches and so far no issues with vitamin levels. I am not concerned. Dumping is manageable if you are even someone who does get it. I get it if I eat (or drink my Protein shake) too fast (large gulps vs sips...so I don't eat too fast, then I don't get it. Pretty simple. I haven' t tested out sugar (other than a bite of my husband's dessert) and that was fine. If i sat down and ate a whole dessert would I dump? Maybe...probably...i'm not going to try to find out. I did ask my Dr about dumping because that was a concern for me (still wanted to have avocado with sushi etc). he said none of that would be a problem. He described a patient who would eat a bowl of Pasta, wait 15 minutes and then eat another one etc as the type of behavior that would cause dumping.

Wow! I'm not sure where to begin to comment on all of this. I think 1st of all I should say I had a banding done a year ago and i am about to have a revision to the bypass. I have had alot of complications. as far as bashing other types of surgery, the site i normally frequent does not do that. thinnertimes.com we are all very supportive and urge everyone to make an informed decision about what is best for them. most people that i know have researched enough to know if they can follow through with the diet of the band or not. because with the band if you are a compulsive eater you can drink milkshakes till the cows come home and with the bypass you are welcome to try but.... do it close to a hospital cause you are gonna get sick. with the bypass reversal ..it can and has been done, my surgeon has done them and they are very difficult and are prone to complications and are only done in extreme situations. Both surgeries have people that regain their weight! That is a fact and it is not just because of the type of surgery it is because people are addicted to food, afterall thats why we are or were over weight! It is a choice and while my experience with the band has left me bitter if asked i will tell it is their choice but i will be gald to tell of my experiences with it! With the pregnancy issue, there a lot of people who had children post operatively from bypass and all are doing fine. I have a friend that became pregnant 5 or 6 mos out and had a very healthy pregnancy. From the sites that I have researched (absa.org) and others the 25% statistic is actually a little low. A lot of people have to have the revision due to complications and the fact that if they had the will power to stop eating junk they wouldn't need surgery to start with. I have respect for the bandsters who are losing and doing good and I have respect for those trying to achieve weight loss. wls is a battle and it should not be argued amongst the ranks it should be argued on the field. If someone is putting your choice down that makes them the loser not you! You did what was best for you and your family. Who gives a crap about he said/she said we are adults fighting for our very lives. I don't need anyones approval but God, My Family, and the Insurance Co.! ( in that order ) Good Luck to you all and hope to have your prayers as I undergo this revision at the end of the year. Christy

I have been banded for over 3 years. The first year I lost from 350 to 230. Then I started having difficulties. Had a port replacement, couldn't get to a proper level for weight loss. Got pregnant, had a complete unfill due to hyperemesis, gained a boatload of weight and found out I have esoph. spasms, dialation and scar tissue choking my tubing which means no fill in, no fill out. I am now actively seeking approval for a DS/BPD. This is a Duodenal Switch. Sue, also on this board is also getting a revision to DS. In no means was this MY fault nor could I not "cut it" with the band. Stuff happens. DS is different than the RNY, as there is no pouch, no dumping, very slight chance of regain, and it has the best rate of success for long term weight loss. It will require extensive supplementation. I always thought I had the superior surgery, the "thinking persons surgery", and apparantly these people are thinking like I use to. Now I am eating some of my own words. My point is this, everyone is different. Each surgery is awesome in its own way. What would you do if your body started rejecting your band? Gain back the weight and say "oh, well?" Circumstances do change, and I had to change with them. And to tell the truth, I'm really tired of feeling filled to the gills and my stomach still growling. I have friends who have had surgery 2 years later than me and are at goal while I am still groveling along. After 3 years, I'm tired of fighting. In order to lose, I have to starve. In order to live comfortably, I gain. And now if doesn't even matter because the fill that is in there will stay in there until I have surgery to remove it.

Hello, I was banded 9/06. I have lost 67 lbs and things have came to a stand still. I have had many fills and I am also in need of one again (waiting for insurance to reinstate...long story). But meanwhile...I just feel like I need to try and jumpstart the band again and its usefullness. I will be honest..I have "fell off the wagon" meaning I have been kinda eating around the band and etc. Has anyone went thru this and if so what did you do to jumpstart yourself again. So I guess what I am needing is some ideas, advice, help to start over again. I know first thing I need is a fill...but it may be a month yet before insurance kicks back in. I have spoken with 3 others in my area that have the band and they have had similar stories to mine and they have talked to dr and dr has lined them up for a Lapband into Bypass revision. I do NOT want the bypass! This band works when I make it work and I want to be the last one that has to line up for a bypass. Thanks for listening.... :thumbup:

Hello, I was banded 9/06. I have lost 67 lbs and things have came to a stand still. I have had many fills and I am also in need of one again (waiting for insurance to reinstate...long story). But meanwhile...I just feel like I need to try and jumpstart the band again and its usefullness. I will be honest..I have "fell off the wagon" meaning I have been kinda eating around the band and etc. Has anyone went thru this and if so what did you do to jumpstart yourself again. So I guess what I am needing is some ideas, advice, help to start over again. I know first thing I need is a fill...but it may be a month yet before insurance kicks back in. I have spoken with 3 others in my area that have the band and they have had similar stories to mine and they have talked to dr and dr has lined them up for a Lapband into Bypass revision. I do NOT want the bypass! This band works when I make it work and I want to be the last one that has to line up for a bypass. Thanks for listening....

Some people ask me if I believe the bible was divinely inspired. Let's stipulate that the bible was divinely inspired. But is it not fair to ask if it was divinely translated? But is it not fair to ask if it was divinely transcribed? But is it not fair to ask if it was divinely interpreted? But is it not fair to ask if the choice of which books to include was divinely inspired? How come the Jewish version of what the Christians call the "Old Testament", has sections that are not in the "Old Testament"? How come the Christian's "Old Testament" has sections that are not in the Jewish version of the "Old Testament"? How come Constantine, originally a Pagan emperor of Rome hand-picked a commission to decide what sections went into the bible and what didn't go into the bible? How come at least two English queens and two English kings made revisions in what has become the Christian Bible? Did you know that the Roman Catholics, the Protestants and the Jews each have different versions of the 10 Commandments?

Carlene, there's a movie coming out about firefighters who pose as Gay to receive same-sex partner benefits offered by their company. It's a comedy but I forget who stars in it. It looks pretty hilarious though. I agree with you, and I think many of the current laws need to be revised to be more inclusive of people in special circumstances.

I read a study that said that 38 percent of people who get the sleeve end up revising it to RNY later. I’m self-pay and I want to get it right the first time.

I only have to do liquids for two weeks and this week which is my second week I can do whole liquid like yogurt and stuff. So I don't think you starting softs after two weeks is bad, since that's what I will be doing as per my Dr. I no that when I weigh myself I get really depresses so I try to do it only once a week which is killer. I had my revision on May 6th and actually gained 8 pounds of fluid I guess. I was so depressed because I am not eating and still gained weight. Today I finally went back to my post op weight minus 2 pounds. It will come off just stop stressing, with the band some weeks I lost a lot, some weeks I lost a little, and some weeks nothing.

Maybe we all place too much emphasis on enjoying what we eat. We should all concentrate on the better things in life, not worrying about our sustenance. For me part of my weight problems were the fact that all I did was think about the next thing I could put in my mouth, I still have those thoughts, only 3 weeks out, but I can already feel them waning. I still remember how things taste and reflect on those at times of real trouble. I also try to revise the food items so that I can eat them. Deconstruct a Reuben sandwich and you get some lean meat (trim the fat please), cheese, sauerkraut and a little sauce, minus the bread of course but just as satisfying.

That is exactly what happened to me. I had horrible gerd and had a revision 4 years after surgery. Sent from my SM-N975U using BariatricPal mobile app

As you wrote your note, you're actually asking two questions: Does the band work? and Does the band work and remain viable for the long haul. You're going to hear the good, the bad and the neutral in response to both questions. In answer to the first, the band works if the owner works it, as "they" say in the street. It will not work for losing weight f not considered and used as an aid, a partner, so to speak. It usually takes a few adjustments to get it set as an optimal aid. Because it's fickle, adjustments to loosen or tighten may be needed from time to time; there's no way to predict. Then there are the band owners whose bands are just right for them out of the gate. Second question: The band isn't perfect and many have revised to other surgeries. They include those who had legitimate cause and I have no doubt that others just didn't work their bands or abused them. With a band, as with any of the bariatric procedures, regain is always a possibility. Maintenance for the long term is the individual's responsibility and demands vigilance. One downside with the band is that it requires pretty much life-long attention, e.g., annual esophagrams (a.k.a. barium swallows) to be sure it's in place and that liquids and food continue to move from mouth to stomach as they should. Slips are always a possibility; some can be avoided (by not gorging and/or eating too quickly and the like) and some not (perhaps a wrenching movement, which doesn't mean, by the way, giving up ice-climbing or whatever dare-devilry is your passion, which reminds me: No need to give up sex, either). One band star is @@Alex Brecher who founded BP. He had surgery about 14 years ago and has maintained his boyish figure since reaching his goal as far as I know. He's not your deciding factor, of course, but, if he stops in, may be able to give you perspective that I can't. I'm one of those who was doing wonderfully, with goal in sight, but was thrown by a life event and regained most the the weight I'd lost. I'm back on track now. For a while I thought my band might have breathed it's last, but my July esophagram was good and the band is doing its thing. I must take care to pay attention to the signals it sends -- again, that personal responsibility thing. To make a long spiel longer, I'll end by suggesting that you read your replies and compose a list of specific questions to pose to people at the surgery practice you're considering. Also attend its support group to ask and listing to people face to face. This last is not to advise you to abandon BP. All the best.

Good luck tomorrow! I will have my revision from the sleeve to modified DS on 9/8. I look forward to seeing your progress!

I know that my husband was concerned would happen to me with both of my surgeries, and I had serious complications with my revision so his concerns were valid. BUT, I told him " what are the risks of me staying fat?, do you want to hire a nurse to bathe me when I'm 60 and can't reach certain body parts, do you want to give me insulin injections when I can't do it for myself, do you want me to die early because of high blood pressure and a stroke?" All of those things run in my family, he saw it firsthand when he met my family, and saw that 85% of my family obese and popping 3-10 pills a day to combat the conditions of obesity. Giving him some perspective on what having a healthy wife could do to benefit our marriage, and years together eased his worries.

She didn't weigh that much to begin with, if I'm right - so maybe it's because she had a lower BMI that the loss has been slower? Also, maybe her sleeve size was larger - my doctor did my mom's larger when she had the revision because she didn't have that much to lose.

I am converting from the band to the sleeve. I am so nervous. I should have got the sleeve the first time around.

I was reading a doctor's advice concerning pre-op at realself.com awhile ago and apparently there is a debate whether pre-op is necessary or not. Both of my surgeons (lap band 09 and revision) required a strict pre-op.

since you have reflux, this decision should be a no-brainer. RNY. I would not even consider sleeve. P.S. I had gastric bypass for that very reason. I had GERD pre-surgery, and there's no way I wanted to risk it getting worse. I see a lot of people revising from sleeve to RNY for that very reasons - sometimes people who never even had GERD prior to surgery. I hav no regrets at all - I'm very happy with my RNY.

HI - I'm also a new band/sleeve revision hopeful. Nice to meet you! My surgeon is submitting my paperwork right now and in 2-3 weeks I should be able to schedule my revision date. I may be the oddity around here. I've never hated my band - I've lost 90 lbs and have kept it off for the past 4+ years. I guess I just learned to live with the food restrictions and PB episodes. Now that I'm unfilled eating so so much easier (to easy says the 3 lbs I've put on). I started having severe reflux 6 months ago and finally went in for an Upper GI - my pouch was dilated all the way around. My doc wanted it out but I didn't until I came home and researched......I fully believe that since I've had this issue I will have more in the future so that is why I have decided on a revision...that and no more PB, stuck first bite, watching people eat while I drool and try not to throw up. It will be nice to have a "normal" relationship with food. Good luck!

yes, my insurance covered the revision at 100%. i didn't pay a single cent. all my doctor did was submit my clinicals with a recomendation that the band be removed and the sleeve done. approval only took 2 days.