My doc said soda (diet) was fine as long as I could tolerate it. I see lots of posts saying they can't because of slippage, wlondering how common that is. My doc has done about 900 procedures in 12 years.

I was told no because of it possibly causing your pouch to swell out and become too large.

I haven't ever had a slip, but I know someone who did.

When I was in the hospital getting my Lap Band surgery, my roommate was a woman in there getting her band replaced. Apparently she regularly drank soda and as a result, not only did her band slip but her stomach actually prolapsed up through it. She also gained 40 pounds in a very short period time.

I will never forget her telling me her story and telling me "learn from my mistake, don't ever drink carbonation".

It was a year ago I was banded and I never forgot her or her story. As a result, I've never touched a carbonated drink since being banded either.

My dr explained that with every sip the band expands and contracts...and doing that over time may lead to slippage. He said it may not happen but he doesn't feel it's worth the risk...... Neither do I so now I just pine over my missed diet coke....lol

I agree with what others have shared with regards to carbonated beverages...for the first time in memory, we did not have champagne on New Year's Eve because I wanted to avoid carbonation, and flat champagne did not appeal to me.

I stopped drinking all carbonated beverages months prior to having my band placed. I don't miss them, and it does not bother me to see my husband drink a diet soda at the table with me.

Your best source for this type of guidance will always be your own surgeon...but also do what feels right for you.

When I told my Dr. I like to have a beer (maybe 2) now and then, he asked me a few questions, after which he said that's fine, and that "I get it"...but for his new patients his policy is definitely NO...

I agree, it can be a risk, and like so many other things with the band, it is easier just to say no and make it easy for everyone....