I am just beginning my journey. My first consult is March 21 and boy am I nervous. I plan on talking to the Dr about the band (which I am leaning toward) as opposed to the sleeve or bypass. Anyway, I read somewhere (can't remember where) that there is nickel in the band. Well guess what? I am allergic to nickel...go figure! Has anyone seen this before or know about it? Also, I keep reading about rejection.....would that have to do with the nickel or just because a foreign object is implanted inside the body? Like I said, I plan on asking the surgeon about this, (I have a book of questions) but just wanted some input. Thanks.

Definitely share your concern with your doctor, but as far as I know, the band is made of a majority of silicone with tiny amounts of titanium. I'm not aware of any nickel. Check with your doctor, and if you're still worried, call the manufacturer of the bands and see what they have to say. Informing yourself if the best strategy. Good luck!

Thanks. Yes I am going to talk to him. Never thought of calling the manufacturer. Good idea!!! Titanium is fine. That is what my glasses frames are.made of....now. Found out the hard way about the nickel.....not good. Thanks again! I appreciate the input.

I found this:

The LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Band is made out of silicone and titanium.

So, no nickel, but definitely talk to your surgeon about it to be safe.

Good luck!

I had the same concerns as I am allergic to nickel and latex. I have been banded almost 14 months and no problems here!

I am allergic to Nickel as well. It was discovered when I was in my early 20's working at a nickel plating factory. I broke out in severe hives so I went to an allergist specialist and he tested me and confirmed. I ended up transferring out of that part of the factory. I have also been banded 1 year next month with no issues at all. Still follow up with your Doc but I have had zero issues. I have the Realize band.

This thread is proof of how great the forum can be.

Thanks everyone! I really appreciate it. I am so nervous as it is, (can you imagine how I will be on surgery day!) and this has really helped calm some.not all but some of my fears. You guys rock!!

I believe I read somewhere that the port has a metal back of some kind to keep the syringe from puncturing it. Can't remember for sure now but it might be something to look into. Just throwing it out there for you. Don't quote me...

I'll be sure to ask the Dr about it when I go. Thanks. Never thought about the port.

I believe I read somewhere that the port has a metal back of some kind to keep the syringe from puncturing it. Can't remember for sure now but it might be something to look into. Just throwing it out there for you. Don't quote me...

The metal used in the band system (that includes tubing and port) is titanium.

Well that's good to know. I have no issues with titanium.....yay!!!

I'm also allergic to nickel. Banded 15 months ago with only success!

I was concerned about the same thing, and I asked Allergan to send me the components so that I could have allergy testing completed. There IS nickel in the Lap Band port--and even though it's coated, I was still concerned. I went to an allergist and had a whole plethora of tests done to confirm that I would not have reaction to the nickel in the band. If you are concerned, you can always be tested. I requested the information from the Allergan website, and they emailed me the listing of components to provide to my doctor. Good luck!

The metal used in the band system (that includes tubing and port) is titanium.

How about a link?

I don't have a link to this information. It was emailed to me by Allergan via a .pdf file. However, you can request the same information via the online information request on the allergan website. The nickel is contained in the anchors that hold the port in place, I think.