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Hi, I'm a 28 year old male with a Realize Band. I was banded in Nov. 2009 (weighed 274) and now weigh approx. 222. I lost about 12 pounds from the initial liquid diet, and the rest of the weight loss has been from dysphagia that has been occurring with no fill in the band. I've lost about 35 pounds over the last couple months. I had a bit of fill toward the beginning (a few CCs), but that wasn't enough to cause much restriction. In the early summer, when my left sternocleidomastoid (neck muscle) became inflamed, I had my fill emptied. Most of my weight loss has occurred since that time. Here are my symptoms: -Neck muscle (sternocleidomastoid) inflamed and hurting -Pain in knees and elbows...sometimes in various other bones/muscles/joints -Pain in various places in my abdomen -Dysphagia (hard to swallow even a couple bites of soft-serve ice cream...have to gag myself to get it out) -ears hurt (have already been checked for ear infection; there is none) -often have back pain -Unusually dark urine -heart stometimes feels like it starts beating too fast -Blood pressure has been all over the map lately -Massive headaches I've recently had an upper GI. Also CT scans of my neck, pelvis and abdomen. I've also had an x-ray of my chest. Everything has came back normal. I'm in so much pain that I typically don't want to get out of bed. I'm a college senior, but am not taking classes right now because of this. I almost blew my near 4.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) due to taking classes this summer. I'm concerned that I have scleroderma and will die in my 20's or 30's due to complications related to that. They say not to assume the worst, etc., etc., but my symptoms do seem to match up with scleroderma (AKA systemic sclerosis). I've also read that even though much more women have it than men, more men die from it. I hope that I haven't ended my life before it even starts, but we shall see. Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Has anyone here been diagnosed with autoimmune disease(s) as a result of the procedure? I have an appt. w/ a rheumatologist on the 1st. Regards, David

Hi there and welcome. I cannot give you my results yet, but I can tell you why I chose the sleeve. Based on current medical research the sleeve provides almost comparable results to gastric-bypass and in many cases, surpasses that of the lap band. I prefer the sleeve because there is less tinkering with the small intestine, and I have an autoimmune disease that impacts my small intestine. Tiffy's response provides great information on moving forward once you've had the surgery. I know I'll listen to her...she's been so successful with her journey and generous with her knowledge. To our good health! Fit

I am new and would like to comment on this thread as maybe my first. I have been a diabetic for 31 years. I attended in 31 years over 150 classes and seminars on diabetes. I have done thousands of hours of research on my disease. I have been involved with the ADA for 20 plus years. I am involved to the highest level with my disease. I keep up on R and D on my disease and the lastest and greatest research, including stem cell, pancrease transplant, pumps, and outside pancreae variations. This just a bit of my knowledge on my disease. I am a type 1 insulin dependent juveniile diabetic. The reason it is primarally called juvenille is because this is the time that this autoimmune disease is triggered...during the baby, child or young child age. I became diabetic at age 10. The type of diabetes I have is an autoimmune disease. I will never ever again produce insulin...period. I became a diabetic through that process and my pancrease does not nor will it ever again produce insulin. My body's cells attacked it. Now that being said, type 2 diabetes is different. Some people develop this form by various ways and to different levels. Example, excees weight, age, other diseases or illnesses not allowing pancrease to work well. The key here is that it does still produce insulin, although to different variations. Now that being said....these forms of diabetes are completely different and should not both be called diabetes, in my opinion. There are way to many variations, and circumstances for type 2er's. Type 1's do not have ANY variations they do not nor will they ever produce insulin. Now that being said..can both develop insulin resistance...yes. Reason because eithier natural or synthetic we all need insulin or we will die..this is a different issue. Can every type 2 have a possibility that they will be cured...yes most definately. Can every type 1 juvenille have a possibility that they will be cured...NO. It will not ever happen. That is a scientific fact not my opinion or a guess. Hope this helps and by all means if you have questions I am happy to answer.

A medal to you Laura. And Julie you'll be getting one too. My grandson, David, started kindergarten this week. So far, so good. Rachel had used a little gel to spike up his white-blond hair. So cute. Two other grandkids are starting pre-school this week. I'm back to school on Weds. My niece, Olivia, had three seizures yesterday. She is currently at Children's Memorial in Chicago. My sister is beside herself. They've never been able to pinpoint the cause of her seizures and she's already on a cocktail of meds to control them. Has anyone ever heard of the Cleveland Clinic? It's supposed to be the new Mayo--just as good. I have two reports to get out to parents today. Went for my hours walk so now I need to get to work so the rest of my day is free. Can't go far though. I've got another 24 hour urine collection thing going on so they can try to pin-point the cause of my slightly high blood Calcium. 98% of the time its parathyroid, but, so far, those tests have been clean. I am still not taking as much "D" and am off my laxative and limiting my calcium intake. The Dr. is sure it isn't any of my supplements or milk drinking. And if it were cancer, they'd know it because it doesn't happen until cancer is advanced. So, she thinks I have a family trait for slightly high calcium but she has to rule out everything else. I've started taking the medicine for my Sjogren's Sydrome. I've taken myself off my anti-inflammatory so I'm stiffer and more sore, but I've increased my fish oil since its an anti-inflammatory. Sjogren's is an autoimmune disease and those are inflammatory diseases so by treating it with the Plaquinelle and fish oil it may reduce my pain in my muscles and joints without the anti-inflammatories which raise my blood pressure. But let me tell you, without my laxative I'm back to my old, highly constipated self, even with adding ground flax seed and a salad with some fruit in it everyday and enough Water to float a boat. Plus, calcium can contribute to constipation and I've cut that back. Very exasperating and uncomfortable. Cheri

Same scenario here. I am paying out of pocket for the difference. One thing you may do is go ahead an appeal. I decided on a more experienced surgeon and his staff refused to appeal the old surgeon's denial letter from my insurance company because they used the "correct billing code" so I use several different appeal letters around here for a reference and did my own appeal. I stated why I believed that I shouldn't have another Lap Band, in my case it was weakening of my esophagus. And that my surgeon had told me that doing RNY would not be a good idea due to scar tissue from the band, making it a much more difficult surgery. I also have the need to take NSAID's eventually and with RNY you can't do that, at the moment I can't take the medication that would help with my autoimmune inflammation and with the sleeve I've been told you are less likely to develop an ulcer as RNY surgery can cause ulcers a lot easier than other surgeries. If you would like to see a copy of my letter PM Me. Personally, I am spoke to the surgeon's office who is going to do my Lap Band removal and asked them what the difference would be out of pocket. I am paying 8k in differences and hoping the appeal will go through post-operatively and I will be reimbursed the difference. Best of luck to ya, it's just another speed bump on your journey with the right letter you can get over it as other have.

It is possible that you have some kind of autoimmune disease. This may have nothing to do with the band and is something that may have developed whether you were banded or not. Be very careful if you decide to get debanded that you do not end up disappointed.Imagine how you will feel if you do get the band removed and you still have the symptoms.

I've been exercising intermittently. I've been swimming whenever the weather is good for the past week and a half, walking on the treadmill whenever I felt up to it since I came home from surgery, even tried jogging a bit now that my incisions no longer hurt. Nothing structured or scheduled, I'm sad to admit, but I've got a weird body that likes to act up on me and keep me from exercising whenever I start to get into a routine. One of the reasons I decided to have surgery is that I tried for over 2 years to make the diet and exercise thing my "full-time job" but with my screwy health, it was impossible. At least now my stomach is no longer working against me. :thumbup1: I am not giving up on exercise though, I just have to accept my limitations and exercise as much as I can when my body cooperates. The good news is that it is getting easier as the weight comes off, and maybe some of my migraines, autoimmune issues and crazy fatigue will improve or go away as well!

my mom had lupus. i do not. my insurance will cover lap band even though i have a relative who did. i have read that lap band is not indicated for those who have autoimmune problems. i don't have any. anyone out there had the band and also have a close relative who has lupus? how are you doing. i am a bit hesitant about "rejection" of the band. my psych. is tomorrow and i am scheduled for my consult with the surgeon on Aug. 2nd. even if he "ok's" it I want to hear from any who may be in the same boat--thanks:smile:

http://www.lapband.com/en/learn_about_lapband/safety_informa tion/ Patients can experience complications after surgery. Most complications are not serious but some may require hospitalization and/or re-operation. In the United States clinical study, with 3-year follow-up reported, 88% of the 299 patients had one or more adverse events, ranging from mild, moderate, to severe. Nausea and vomiting (51%), gastroesophageal reflux (regurgitation) (34%), band slippage/pouch dilatation (24%) and stoma obstruction (stomach-band outlet blockage) (14%) were the most common post-operative complications. In the study, 25% of the patients had their band systems removed, two-thirds of which were following adverse events. Esophageal dilatation or dysmotility (poor esophageal function) occurred in 11% of patients, the long-term effects of which are currently unknown. Constipation, diarrhea and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) occurred in 9% of the patients. In 9% of the patients, a second surgery was needed to fix a problem with the band or initial surgery. In 9% of the patients, there was an additional procedure to fix a leaking or twisted access port. The access port design has been improved. Four out of 299 patients (1.3%) had their bands erode into their stomachs. These bands needed to be removed in a second operation. Surgical techniques have evolved to reduce slippage. Surgeons with more laparoscopic experience and more experience with these procedures report fewer complications. Adverse events that were considered to be non-serious, and which occurred in less than 1% of the patients, included: esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), gastritis (inflammation of the stomach), hiatal hernia (some stomach above the diaphragm), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), abdominal pain, hernia, incisional hernia, infection, redundant skin, dehydration, diarrhea (frequent semi-solid bowel movements), abnormal stools, constipation, flatulence (gas), dyspepsia (upset stomach), eructation (belching), cardiospasm (an obstruction of passage of food through the bottom of the esophagus), hematemsis (vomiting of blood), asthenia (fatigue), fever, chest pain, incision pain, contact dermatitis (rash), abnormal healing, edema (swelling), paresthesia (abnormal sensation of burning, prickly, or tingling), dysmenorrhea (difficult periods), hypochromic anemia (low oxygen carrying part of blood), band system leak, cholecystitis (gall stones), esophageal ulcer (sore), port displacement, port site pain, spleen injury, and wound infection. Be sure to ask your surgeon about these possible complications and any of these medical terms that you dont understand. Back to Top What are the specific risks and possible complications? Talk to your doctor about all of the following risks and complications: Ulceration Gastritis (irritated stomach tissue) Gastroesophageal reflux (regurgitation) Heartburn Gas bloat Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) Dehydration Constipation Weight regain Death Laparoscopic surgery has its own set of possible problems. They include: Spleen or liver damage (sometimes requiring spleen removal) Damage to major blood vessels Lung problems Thrombosis (blood clots) Rupture of the wound Perforation of the stomach or esophagus during surgery Laparoscopic surgery is not always possible. The surgeon may need to switch to an "open" method due to some of the reasons mentioned here. This happened in about 5% of the cases in the U.S. Clinical Study. There are also problems that can occur that are directly related to the LAP-BAND� System: The band can spontaneously deflate because of leakage. That leakage can come from the band, the reservoir, or the tubing that connects them. The band can slip There can be stomach slippage The stomach pouch can enlarge The stoma (stomach outlet) can be blocked The band can erode into the stomach Obstruction of the stomach can be caused by: Food Swelling Improper placement of the band The band being over-inflated Band or stomach slippage Stomach pouch twisting Stomach pouch enlargement There have been some reports that the esophagus has stretched or dilated in some patients. This could be caused by: Improper placement of the band The band being tightened too much Stoma obstruction Binge eating Excessive vomiting Patients with a weaker esophagus may be more likely to have this problem. A weaker esophagus is one that is not good at pushing food through to your stomach. Tell your surgeon if you have difficulty swallowing. Then your surgeon can evaluate this. Weight loss with the LAP-BAND� System is typically slower and more gradual than with some other weight loss surgeries. Tightening the band too fast or too much to try to speed up weight loss should be avoided. The stomach pouch and/or esophagus can become enlarged as a result. You need to learn how to use your band as a tool that can help you reduce the amount you eat. Infection is possible. Also, the band can erode into the stomach. This can happen right after surgery or years later, although this rarely happens. Complications can cause reduced weight loss. They can also cause weight gain. Other complications can result that require more surgery to remove, reposition, or replace the band. Some patients have more nausea and vomiting than others. You should see your physician at once if vomiting persists. Rapid weight loss may lead to symptoms of: Malnutrition Anemia Related complications It is possible you may not lose much weight or any weight at all. You could also have complications related to obesity. If any complications occur, you may need to stay in the hospital longer. You may also need to return to the hospital later. A number of less serious complications can also occur. These may have little effect on how long it takes you to recover from surgery. If you have existing problems, such as diabetes, a large hiatal hernia (part of the stomach in the chest cavity), Barretts esophagus (severe, chronic inflammation of the lower esophagus), or emotional or psychological problems, you may have more complications. Your surgeon will consider how bad your symptoms are, and if you are a good candidate for the LAP-BAND� System surgery. You also have more risk of complications if you've had a surgery before in the same area. If the procedure is not done laparoscopically by an experienced surgeon, you may have more risk of complications. Anti-inflammatory drugs that may irritate the stomach, such as aspirin and NSAIDs, should be used with caution. Some people need folate and vitamin B12 supplements to maintain normal homocycteine levels. Elevated homocycteine levels can increase risks to your heart and the risk of spinal birth defects. You can develop gallstones after a rapid weight loss. This can make it necessary to remove your gallbladder. There have been no reports of autoimmune disease with the use of the LAP-BAND� System. Autoimmune diseases and connective tissue disorders, though, have been reported after long-term implantation of other silicone devices. These problems can include systemic lupus erythematosus and scleroderma. At this time, there is no conclusive clinical evidence that supports a relationship between connective-tissue disorders and silicone implants. Long-term studies to further evaluate this possibility are still being done. You should know, though, that if autoimmune symptoms develop after the band is in place, you may need treatment. The band may also need to be removed. Talk with your surgeon about this possibility. Also, if you have symptoms of autoimmune disease now, the LAP-BAND� System may not be right for you. Back to Top Removing the LAP-BAND� System If the LAP-BAND� System has been placed laparoscopically, it may be possible to remove it the same way. This is an advantage of the LAP-BAND� System. However, an "open" procedure may be necessary to remove a band. In the U.S. Clinical Study, 60% of the bands that were removed were done laparoscopically. Surgeons report that after the band is removed, the stomach returns to essentially a normal state. At this time, there are no known reasons to suggest that the band should be replaced or removed at some point unless a complication occurs or you do not lose weight. It is difficult, though, to say whether the band will stay in place for the rest of your life. It may need to be removed or replaced at some point. Removing the device requires a surgical procedure. That procedure will have all the related risks and possible complications that come with surgery. The risk of some complications, such as erosions and infection, increase with any added procedure. LapSf Study that I swiped from MacMadame's profile LapSF Educational presentation to FACS - includes some 2 year results LapSF Two Year Study LapSF Five Year Study - abstract only LapSF Five Year Study - presentation (requires Windows to play) Literature review on the sleeve - requires $ to get the full text unfortunately Sleeve best for over 50 crowd Video of a sleeve with lots of education discussion Video of a sleeve that is more about the operation Ghrelin levels after RnY and sleeve Ghrelin levels after band and sleeve Diabetes resolution in RnY vs. Sleeve Comparison of band to sleeve - literature review

I have active RA which is an autoimmune disease and I have the lap band. My drs did not have a problem with it and neither did the surgeons. I had to stop my medications 3 weeks before and wait until I was healed completely to have it again. I was worried that I wasn't able to get banded, but I was. I don't know much about your situation, but just make sure that you work with your doctors. If they say no, I wouldn't do it. They are there to help you look after yourself. Good Luck!

Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease. It is a sister to Lupus. "APS is associated with recurrent clotting events (thrombosis) including premature stroke, repeated miscarriages, phlebitis, venous thrombosis (clot in the vein) and pulmonary thromboembolism (blockage of an artery found in the lung due to a clot that has traveled from a vein). It is also associated with low platelet or blood elements that prevent bleeding. Recently, however, even more disease states have been linked with APL including premature heart attack, migraine headaches, various cardiac valvular abnormalities, skin lesions, abnormal movement/chorea, diseases that mimic multiple sclerosis, vascular diseases of the eye that can lead to visual loss and blindness. APS is an autoimmune disorder in which the body recognizes certain normal components of blood and/or cell membranes as foreign substances and produces antibodies against them. There are two known forms of APS. APS may occur in people with systemic lupus erythematosus, other autoimmune disease, or in otherwise healthy individuals." (From the APS Foundation of America, Inc. Welcome ~ APS Foundation of America, Inc) My local hospital does this surgery & Gastric Bypass both via lap and they will NOT do it on me because of my APS and my lupus like symptoms. They are afraid of surgical complications - ei. stroke, PE, DVT, bleeding, etc. They are worried about healing issues. They are worried that I will reject the band as well. (Knowing my body rejected the IUD after 24 hours and I got a nice flare and infection and it is made out similar materials. They are right.) They are concerned how I will be able to maintain my INR due to restricted diet, etc. I have gotten a strong no from every one of my doctors. Logically, I know they are right. Disappointed as heck, yep. So, no, I do not think you would be a candidate. Of course, I am sure you could find someone who would do it anyway. Me, I am not going to risk it. Come close to death too many times from APS to know better.

I found the contraindications on the lap-band page and it does not specifically mention APS; however, it does mention autoimmune connective tissue disorders as contraindicated with the lap-band. I'd ask a surgeon or even call the toll-free number and ask someone at Allergan. The LAP-BAND® System is not right for you if: You have an inflammatory disease or condition of the gastrointestinal tract, such as ulcers, severe esophagitis, or Crohn’s disease. You have severe heart or lung disease, or any other disease that makes you a poor candidate for any surgery. You have a problem that could cause bleeding in the esophagus or stomach. That might include esophageal or gastric varices (dilated veins). It might also be something such as congenital or acquired intestinal telangiectasia (dilation of a small blood vessel). You have portal hypertension. Your esophagus, stomach, or intestine is not normal (congenital or acquired). For instance, you might have a narrowed opening. You have/experienced an intraoperative gastric injury, such as a gastric perforation at or near the location of the intended band placement. You have cirrhosis. You have chronic pancreatitis. You are addicted to alcohol or drugs. You have an infection anywhere in your body, or one that could contaminate the surgical area. You are on chronic, long-term steroid treatment. You might be allergic to materials in the device. You cannot tolerate pain from an implanted device. You or someone in your family has an autoimmune connective tissue disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or scleroderma. The same is true if you have symptoms of one of these diseases.

I found out 7 months ago I had APS. It is an autoimmune disorder. I DO NOT HAVE LUPUS. Does anyone know if I can be "banded"? Thanks.:thumbup:

Here's my typical reply when people ask me about band vs. vsg Also, just because the band can be removed, you have no idea what or how severely it may damage your stomach or esophagus before you are able to get it removed. I've been there, and done that. My band only lasted 8 months, and I lost additional stomach tissue during my revision because of the scar tissue from the band. I've had the band, and over a 2 year period the band is more expensive than the sleeve due to follow up appointments, fills/unfills, and the other issues with the band. With the reoperation rate of the band, it's actually way more expensive than the sleeve. Some surgeons prefer the band because it's the real money maker of the bariatric surgeries. I've had both the band and the sleeve, and my personal opinion is that the sleeve is superior over the band for several reasons. The band has the lowest and slowest loss stats, highest rate of long term complications even outdoing RNY with the exception of Vitamin deficiencies. The food restrictions alone with the band are horrific. I couldn't eat meat, any type of breads, lettuce, raw veggies, and most fruits caused major issues. The less ghrelin thing is true. Just because you fill up your little pouch with the band doesn't mean you are satisfied. That hunger is still there, and once the food slips through, you'll be hungry again, and really aren't supposed to eat because you're on a forced diet. This is a post I share often when people ask about VSG vs. Band, or VSG vs. RNY, or VSG for a revision from band vs. band to band revision. At the very bottom, you'll find some research links that I enjoyed reading for research purposes. Hope this helps. This is directly from the band manufacturer so there is no skewing facts or stats here. This is their own study. Quote: Weight Loss Surgery Risk Information | LAP-BAND? Patients can experience complications after surgery. Most complications are not serious but some may require hospitalization and/or re-operation. In the United States clinical study, with 3-year follow-up reported, 88% of the 299 patients had one or more adverse events, ranging from mild, moderate, to severe. Nausea and vomiting (51%), gastroesophageal reflux (regurgitation) (34%), band slippage/pouch dilatation (24%) and stoma obstruction (stomach-band outlet blockage) (14%) were the most common post-operative complications. In the study, 25% of the patients had their band systems removed, two-thirds of which were following adverse events. Esophageal dilatation or dysmotility (poor esophageal function) occurred in 11% of patients, the long-term effects of which are currently unknown. Constipation, diarrhea and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) occurred in 9% of the patients. In 9% of the patients, a second surgery was needed to fix a problem with the band or initial surgery. In 9% of the patients, there was an additional procedure to fix a leaking or twisted access port. The access port design has been improved. Four out of 299 patients (1.3%) had their bands erode into their stomachs. These bands needed to be removed in a second operation. Surgical techniques have evolved to reduce slippage. Surgeons with more laparoscopic experience and more experience with these procedures report fewer complications. Adverse events that were considered to be non-serious, and which occurred in less than 1% of the patients, included: esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), gastritis (inflammation of the stomach), hiatal hernia (some stomach above the diaphragm), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), abdominal pain, hernia, incisional hernia, infection, redundant skin, dehydration, diarrhea (frequent semi-solid bowel movements), abnormal stools, constipation, flatulence (gas), dyspepsia (upset stomach), eructation (belching), cardiospasm (an obstruction of passage of food through the bottom of the esophagus), hematemsis (vomiting of blood), asthenia (fatigue), fever, chest pain, incision pain, contact dermatitis (rash), abnormal healing, edema (swelling), paresthesia (abnormal sensation of burning, prickly, or tingling), dysmenorrhea (difficult periods), hypochromic anemia (low oxygen carrying part of blood), band system leak, cholecystitis (gall stones), esophageal ulcer (sore), port displacement, port site pain, spleen injury, and wound infection. Be sure to ask your surgeon about these possible complications and any of these medical terms that you dont understand. Back to Top What are the specific risks and possible complications? Talk to your doctor about all of the following risks and complications: Ulceration Gastritis (irritated stomach tissue) Gastroesophageal reflux (regurgitation) Heartburn Gas bloat Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) Dehydration Constipation Weight regain Death Laparoscopic surgery has its own set of possible problems. They include: Spleen or liver damage (sometimes requiring spleen removal) Damage to major blood vessels Lung problems Thrombosis (blood clots) Rupture of the wound Perforation of the stomach or esophagus during surgery Laparoscopic surgery is not always possible. The surgeon may need to switch to an "open" method due to some of the reasons mentioned here. This happened in about 5% of the cases in the U.S. Clinical Study. There are also problems that can occur that are directly related to the LAP-BAND? System: The band can spontaneously deflate because of leakage. That leakage can come from the band, the reservoir, or the tubing that connects them. The band can slip There can be stomach slippage The stomach pouch can enlarge The stoma (stomach outlet) can be blocked The band can erode into the stomach Obstruction of the stomach can be caused by: Food Swelling Improper placement of the band The band being over-inflated Band or stomach slippage Stomach pouch twisting Stomach pouch enlargement There have been some reports that the esophagus has stretched or dilated in some patients. This could be caused by: Improper placement of the band The band being tightened too much Stoma obstruction Binge eating Excessive vomiting Patients with a weaker esophagus may be more likely to have this problem. A weaker esophagus is one that is not good at pushing food through to your stomach. Tell your surgeon if you have difficulty swallowing. Then your surgeon can evaluate this. Weight loss with the LAP-BAND? System is typically slower and more gradual than with some other weight loss surgeries. Tightening the band too fast or too much to try to speed up weight loss should be avoided. The stomach pouch and/or esophagus can become enlarged as a result. You need to learn how to use your band as a tool that can help you reduce the amount you eat. Infection is possible. Also, the band can erode into the stomach. This can happen right after surgery or years later, although this rarely happens. Complications can cause reduced weight loss. They can also cause weight gain. Other complications can result that require more surgery to remove, reposition, or replace the band. Some patients have more nausea and vomiting than others. You should see your physician at once if vomiting persists. Rapid weight loss may lead to symptoms of: Malnutrition Anemia Related complications It is possible you may not lose much weight or any weight at all. You could also have complications related to obesity. If any complications occur, you may need to stay in the hospital longer. You may also need to return to the hospital later. A number of less serious complications can also occur. These may have little effect on how long it takes you to recover from surgery. If you have existing problems, such as diabetes, a large hiatal hernia (part of the stomach in the chest cavity), Barretts esophagus (severe, chronic inflammation of the lower esophagus), or emotional or psychological problems, you may have more complications. Your surgeon will consider how bad your symptoms are, and if you are a good candidate for the LAP-BAND? System surgery. You also have more risk of complications if you've had a surgery before in the same area. If the procedure is not done laparoscopically by an experienced surgeon, you may have more risk of complications. Anti-inflammatory drugs that may irritate the stomach, such as aspirin and NSAIDs, should be used with caution. Some people need folate and vitamin B12 supplements to maintain normal homocycteine levels. Elevated homocycteine levels can increase risks to your heart and the risk of spinal birth defects. You can develop gallstones after a rapid weight loss. This can make it necessary to remove your gallbladder. There have been no reports of autoimmune disease with the use of the LAP-BAND? System. Autoimmune diseases and connective tissue disorders, though, have been reported after long-term implantation of other silicone devices. These problems can include systemic lupus erythematosus and scleroderma. At this time, there is no conclusive clinical evidence that supports a relationship between connective-tissue disorders and silicone implants. Long-term studies to further evaluate this possibility are still being done. You should know, though, that if autoimmune symptoms develop after the band is in place, you may need treatment. The band may also need to be removed. Talk with your surgeon about this possibility. Also, if you have symptoms of autoimmune disease now, the LAP-BAND? System may not be right for you. Back to Top Removing the LAP-BAND? System If the LAP-BAND? System has been placed laparoscopically, it may be possible to remove it the same way. This is an advantage of the LAP-BAND? System. However, an "open" procedure may be necessary to remove a band. In the U.S. Clinical Study, 60% of the bands that were removed were done laparoscopically. Surgeons report that after the band is removed, the stomach returns to essentially a normal state. At this time, there are no known reasons to suggest that the band should be replaced or removed at some point unless a complication occurs or you do not lose weight. It is difficult, though, to say whether the band will stay in place for the rest of your life. It may need to be removed or replaced at some point. Removing the device requires a surgical procedure. That procedure will have all the related risks and possible complications that come with surgery. The risk of some complications, such as erosions and infection, increase with any added procedure. LapSf Study that I swiped from MacMadame's profile LapSF Educational presentation to FACS - includes some 2 year results LapSF Two Year Study LapSF Five Year Study - abstract only LapSF Five Year Study - presentation (requires Windows to play) Literature review on the sleeve - requires $$ to get the full text unfortunately Sleeve best for over 50 crowd Video of a sleeve with lots of education discussion Video of a sleeve that is more about the operation Ghrelin levels after RnY and sleeve Ghrelin levels after band and sleeve Diabetes resolution in RnY vs. Sleeve Comparison of band to sleeve - literature review LapBandTalk Click to visit the largest Lap-Band community online! __________________

Fantastic Laura! So happy for you and your family. Whenever you have to let go of Nels a little, you make me smile with how hard it is for you. But you're doing it anyway. Good for you. Apples, the composite is incredible. Can't wait to see the real thing. Arlene. I was thinking about your Dr.'s advice with the no beef unless organic and all that. You have fibromyalgia. I'm not sure if that's an autoimmune disease but I do know that with some autoimmune diseases like RA people who eliminate all red meat can experience remission or greatly reduced symptoms in their disease. I know it really helped my sister. So stick with the chicken and fish. But back away from the carbs. Cheri

I was diagnosed with Graves in 2005. For a while I was a looser with Graves, then it turned and i gained. I was treated with RAI and went total hypo. It has taken years for the synthetic replacement to level off. I gained a bunch my weight post RAI. 40+, which they said shouldn't happen once my thyroid is balanced. If you are gaining with graves and treat it, you will probably gain if you get RAI. Graves sucks either way because you can only treat the symptoms not the disease. So even if you treat the thyroid, you can still get all the wacky autoimmune effects. Like hives, etc. I think if you are healthy, and thyroid is under control, you will be able to get the band. In my opinion, the sooner you start the journey, the better. Good luck!!!!

I am not an expert on Graves, but I had a hyperactive nodule that was treated with radio-iodine. I now take levoxyl daily. It had no impact on my lapband. You'll want to be sure you tell your surgeon. I don't believe the autoimmunity disqualifies you. Are they thinking of giving you radio-iodine treatment, or are you just goung with drug treatment for now? You'll probably need to adjust your dosage more often as you lose weight.

Hi everyone, This is my first time on this site, and I'm not even sure if I'm posting a question in the right area! Over the past few weeks I have SERIOUISLY been considering the LAP-BAND® surgery. I feel like once I decided I've had ENOUGH being extremely overweight, this surgery and new way of life is all I can think about! I've been reading up on any information I can find over the past few weeks, however I can not find a definite answer to one important question I have. I was diagonised with Graves Disease, (hyperthyroidism) about six months ago. (I'm one of the lucky 5% that GAINS weight...) I'm taking thyroid medication right now. Also, I was lucky enough to finally confirm I have PCOS. No excuses... but obviously it is extremely hard for me to lose weight! I'm nervous I won't be approved for the LAP-BAND® since I have a Thyroid disease, which is technically autoimmune. Was/is anyone out there in the same boat as me? ANY information or guidance is greatly appreciated. Thanks! Marie :thumbup:

Idiot, Am I right in thinking, after reading your bandster profile, that you already had a history of pancreatitis before your surgery? In which case I agree that your surgeon should not have allowed you / put pressure on you to have the surgery. However, your initial post only served to scare-monger... as far as I am aware (and I did a lot of research before deciding on the surgery) there is no link between it and pancreatitis. I can see how the surgery could have worsened a pre-existing condition and for that I feel sorry for you, but please think before you act, your individual problems, and I will reiterate, PRE-EXISTING condition, shouldn't have been used to scare others out of doing what is right for THEM. The most common cause of chronic pancreatitis is many years of heavy alcohol use. The chronic form of pancreatitis can be triggered by one acute attack that damages the pancreatic duct. The damaged duct causes the pancreas to become inflamed. Scar tissue develops and the pancreas is slowly destroyed. Other causes of chronic pancreatitis are hereditary disorders of the pancreas cystic fibrosis—the most common inherited disorder leading to chronic pancreatitis hypercalcemia—high levels of calcium in the blood hyperlipidemia or hypertriglyceridemia—high levels of blood fats some medicines certain autoimmune conditions unknown causes I hope you recover and feel better soon. Well done on your weight loss by the way. :thumbup:

So, I have been lurking the boards reading as much info as I can and reading up on Tricare policies prior to approaching my PCM. One thing I keep seeing is talk about co-morbidities and I was wondering if this is the same as the 3 additional requirements for Tricare approval if you are only 100 pounds over weight? I need this surgery but I am not sure where to begin and scared of denial. I cannot even get Tricare approval my thyroid medication anymore! (brand name vs generic). I am 29 years old. I see a neurologist, an endocrinologist, a gastroenterologist, and I am on a wait list for the rheumatologist I want to see. I am also under the care of my OBGYN because I am scheduled for a hysterectomy next week. I have uterine fibroids, and endometrioisis which has blocked one of my ovaries from producing some of the hormones I need, but they cannot give me estrogen because it would only make the condition worse. Given this I am having the surgery to save my "good" ovary. At 21 I was diagnosed with facet joint disorder in my back, at 19 I developed hypothyroidism with a TSH level of 98 I take 3.75 mcg of what used to be Synthroid but now take the generic (another story) and my levels are no longer stable. I had my gallbladder removed at 18 due to severe gallstones and bile leakage. I had my first surgery to remove ovarian cysts at 22. Almost four years ago I developed neurological symptoms that they have not given a name to yet (they keep changing their minds) but the result was muscle failure, atrophy, and loss of some of motor function in both my feet and ankles with left sided arm weakness. This year I had my first colonoscopy because I developed ischemic colitis and have my repeat colonoscopy next month because the GI doc thinks I may have ulcerative colitis but was unable to get a clear view due to all the inflammation in my colon at the time. I am on approximately 13 different drugs at this point in time. The endocrine doc is the one pushing for me to see the rheumatoid doc because he thinks all my problems are the result of an autoimmune disorder that just hasn't presented itself at the right time while the docs use me as a lab rat. Anyhow, I see a doc off base (I am prime though) who was my doc as a teen into adulthood until we transferred and then came back to the area. He has watched me struggle for years and he said for most people that it is a matter of calories in calories out but that a small percentage of people such as myself just cannot lose the weight. I am 120 pounds overweight with a BMI of 36 and the only time I was able to lose any weight was when I paid for a medically supervised liquid plan. However, one can only go so long on 600-800 calories a day before you plan just get hungry and break down. If I had the support of lap-band I could do that and not crack because my belly would be full on a VLC diet. My mother is pre-diabetic, has lupus, and has been overweight all her life. My grandmother has been the same way suffering heart attacks and other major illnesses. I do not want to be like them. I desperately want to lose weight so that maybe perhaps some of the issues described above might improve or go away entirely. I want to be able to play with my kids, and my grandchildren one day. I am just not sure if all or any of my health issues will make a difference or not to Tricare when it comes to approval. Thinking fiscally if I was able to get off one particular medication it would save Tricare $800 a month. Right now it looks like I only match one of the three requirements and that is my thyroid. Does anyone have experience or knowledge of them approving Lap-band surgery for conditions not in the three requirements? I do not even know if I have high bp because I take a beta-blocker for anxiety because I have mitrovalve prolapse. Just not sure if this is something I should proceed with or not given I do not meet all three requirements and would appreciate any and all feedback or experiences you have had good or bad. Thanks so much for reading this very long post!

Yes it does. I had un-diagnosed PCOS for 30+ years. When it was finally spotted and treated the Metformin and hormone troche together meant that I dropped 20+kg without changing my diet. Then the thyroid went and my TSH was off the scale almost at 57, I thought I was dying. The result after 18 months with no thyroid was that my weight had gone up and over my previous untreated PCOS maximum and was at 138kg. I am now down to 105kg since my op in Aug 09. The band, with some restriction, stops me feeling hungry early in the day then lunch-time onwards I just eat the normal low GI food that is best for PCOS folks anyway. The weight loss helps with the insulin resistance which in my case has turned into type 2 diabetes due to the thyroid collapse, I think I am now back down to just plain old fashioned IR again now. :-) I thought like you that it wouldn't be any benefit but once I hit 138kg, after fighting the insulin resistance weight gain all my life and then having the thyroid do so much to add to that side of it, my GP recommended it and I said...but I am overweight because of medical conditions that will still be there working against me even with a band and I felt very mis-understood by them. I talked to a top diabetes expert and my trusted endocrinologist (who had diagnosed the very obvious PCOS missed by my Gp's for so many years) between us we decided that at 45 years of age I did not want to spend the next 3 years trying to get my weight back to where it had been before my thyroid packed up. My life was wasting away and I decided after much research and heartache that I did not want to die of a heartattack while I undid the damage from the PCOS and Hashimotos. I felt cheated, like it wasn't my fault and why did I have to have the operation. I also struggle with the pre and post op care as no one reads my records and assumes I am a junk food addict that sits on my butt watching TV and stuffing my face all day and that's why I am overweight! If your excess weight is due to the IR then so long as you are having Metformin for it, hormone treatment for the excess androgens and Oroxine or whatever (none generic, go for the full price brand,,,there is a difference!) for the Hashimotos it should benefit you. Make sure your T3 & T4 are at the high end of the range and your TSH at the lowest end to get the best benefit from your thyroid meds. PCOS is hard to deal with as it is a collection of symptoms that are too often attributed to other things. The PCOS symptoms are related to an excess of androgens and Insulin Resistance. These need to be treated by a doctor with specialist knowledge. Menstruation needs hormones to regulate it. The body hair is the wrong sort, male hair not the softer velus female hair, hair growth can slow down and lighten if hormone and hair treatments are used at the same time. Excess body weight, probably carried centrally - small bum, skinny legs and big round belly, is caused by Insulin Resistance which prevents you from using and causes you to store too much of the energy you consume, Metformin deals with this and then the band will give you the best help to get rid of the excess weight you have probably amassed throughout the years. Both Hashimotos and PCOS are autoimmune type conditions. Auto Immunes tend to run in packs!! Most people that are diagnosed with one have or end up with more than one. Good luck with your decision and journey. I would say that the band in conjunction with Thyroid treatment and PCOS management will take you where you want to be. I'll see you when you get there :-)

thinopia-I also have Hashimoto's thyroiditis (the autoimmune hypothyroid), so I do have what my endocrinologist calls "the double whammy" with PCOS AND hypothyroidism. He never pushes WLS, but does say I need to lose weight. With PCOS, it's the chicken or the egg-does PCOS cause weight gain (which I believe it does, b/c I had no problems with weight growing up until I got in my early 20s), but then weight gain makes PCOS symptoms worse. If only it were easy to lose weight. I seem to put on 10-15 pounds in just a couple of months by doing nothing different. I will have to be private pay because DH's insurance does not cover WLS at all. I guess I just wonder that if I am going to get similar results with WLS as what I would with a physician supervised diet/exercise program, then I am not sure if I want to do surgery. Of course the surgeon is going to recommend surgery, b/c that's money in his pocket, so it's not like they don't have some kind of bias. I haven't gone to an informational seminar yet-I am supposed to go next week. The surgeon also has medically supervised diet program-either 6 weeks or 6 months where they do a program just for you, and even go to the grocery store with you. You also meet with someone who has a degree in exercise physiology to train 2 times per week. I am really torn, because I get so inspired by the weight loss that I have seen people talk about with VSG, but then I wonder with the PCOS and the hypothyroidism (which is only getting worse as I get older and my body destroys my thyroid and I have to go on higher doses of thyroid medicine as time goes on), if I will have all the wonderful results as what everyone else has had. I did print out the paperwork for the surgeon I am going to, and he does have a specific section for PCOS. I don't know if they cover that in the informational seminar, or if that part is covered during the consult with the surgeon ( I don't know if you have to commit to anything prior to meeting with the surgeon).

thanks for all your support. i so look forward to the journey. i spend so much time on this forum and looking at before and after photos. i have even dreamed of issues related to the sleeve. so my mind is thinking even when i am sleeping. regarding my baby's birth. i have had infertility issues for the past 13 years. not weight related but related to an autoimmune disease. in the end after years of trying every thing and having multiple miscarries we sought our a gestational carrier for our children. my daughter is now 5 1/2 months old and our new baby will be born the end of august. i am totally in love. when i think about my children i just do not want them to witness my struggle with obesity. i know food will always have to be monitored but my relationship with food will be more normal i think with the sleeve. as for timing. i hope to have the sleeve the first week of august. if all works out i will have surgery about two to three weeks before our new baby arrives and hope to be feeling better by that point. i will then continue my recovery from surgery as i am also on maternity leave from my work. with having surgery i will also be able to use up my big bank of sick time and not use my vacation time on my maternity leave. so i think that is a great plan. at this time i am planning on going to dr aceves for my surgery since i have a bmi of 31.8 and will be self pay. i am a nurse and never thought i would consider mexico. i did talk to a doctor in tucson and he said i would not even qualify for his program. point blank. so for surgery in tucson i would need to wait for several years and more weight gain and more comorbidities..... that just seems crazy!!! i have 70-75 lbs to loose. and i have been on some kind of diet it seems my whole life.... well at least planning some sort of diet. the more i read of dr aceves and his program in mexicalli i get more convinced he is the doctor for me. i love that he has so many patients on this board that highly recommend him and from what i can find on my own research a great reputation and wonderful surgical stats. so that is that. thanks again for your support. kelly

I have Myasthenia Gravis, not MS. It is an autoimmune disease that attacks the muscle receptors. And I have a sleeve. My neurologist was very supportive and has been with me every step of the way providing information and support. My surgery was a team effort by the VSG surgeon, my neuro and my PCP.

Do you think it may be the nicotine going direct to your mouth from the electronic cigarette- you think there is a difference there than smoking Read below for my weird thing w/ gums I have lichen planus which maybe Humming Bird can explain better...the conclusion is that most docs have not heard of it and know much about it but it totally got aggravated/worse after surgery for some reason. Supplements and drugs can make it worse. I went on steroid rinse for it and it got better and in discussing w/ my dentist I mentioned I thought the vit C made it worse and he said Vit C makes it better... so I started taking the vit C again and guess what.. after it was nearly gone it got bad again. Anyway this caused bleeding gums and it wasn't related to gingivitis but this inflammation that is an autoimmune thing it seems. I think its rare (not sure maybe it isn't that rare just that they don't seem to know a lot about it) but if you can't find any other causes look into that. I wonder if the the chewable C is irritiating to our gums - lichen planus or not - because its acidic. Hummingbird what do you think?