Well after four years with my lapband it's looking like it is time to have it removed. Too many issues to list and next week I go for the testing to see if that is the issue.

So the question now is - to Sleeve or NOT to sleeve..... Would love to hear stories of those that have been there

With the band I lost 60 pounds and kept it off for four years - but I still have 45 to make my goal and I still have high blood pressure...... and I really struggle with the issue of removal of part of the stomach

Thanks so much!

Kim

I am dealing with the same thing right now. I had my lapband removed 03/15/2011 bc of slip and now I just want back to get either the lapband put back in or sleeve. My stepdad has the sleeve. I am waiting to get my authorization for the sleeve-worst case scenerio I will have to get the band again

Amy

Another option is the band with plication. Plication is a procedure where they fold your stomach to form a sleeve and then they suture it. It can be done alone but it seems that most doctors are doing it along with the band. It gives similar results as the sleeve but you have the advantage that it is reversible because the stomach isn't taken out. Also if it done with band if you are not losing sufficient weight, the band can be filled. I have seen some people saying that they don't even need a fill at all. I think it also prevents "cheating" the band because even if you ate foods that can easily go through the band, it goes into a reduced stomach.

Good luck with your journey