I was banded on June 25,2013 when I was 17 and 2 months later went off to college. Once I got to college I pretty much just gave up on the lap band. I ate as if never had the surgery, drank while eating, eating unhealthy and not exercising. I now want to pick up where I left off. I stopped going for fills after my second fill and I'm almost positive that I've stretched out my pouch. I heard that they can empty my fills and start new that way but i dont know if it's too late since I stopped following the rules nearly 9 months ago. I asked my mom and she said she doesn't think the doctors will even do anything since she went through a really rough time and stopped making payments. What do you's think? Any suggestions? Opinions, ?????

First (not to nick pick ) it must have been in 2012 or earlier as June 2013 has not arrived yet. I think you should make an appointment with the doctor and talk to him, maybe he will set up a payment plan for you to follow and he will take you back as a patient. If he will not see you then you still need to find another doctor in your area and promise to pay as you go. Do not give up on yourself take the first step. hugs

If you only had two fills, you may not have stretched anything. Did you feel restriction? If they were small fills, and you drank to wash food through, you probably haven't caused any longlasting issues. Only you and your doc can be for sure.

You can read on here almost every day about folks who "fell off the wagon, eating too much, don't feel any restriction, not losing any weight, etc, etc". Thats the good thing about the ADJUSTABLE lap band.......its adjustable for a reason. I'm speaking from experience. I too, at one point a couple of years ago had almost given up on this whole band thing working for me. ALMOST being the key word....I got on here and read the success stories, met a friend who had the band in my area, and said "get your butt back to the doctor. I did that, although I was somewhat embarrassed because I had not been following up like I knew I should have been. Now, perfect restriction and completely loving my newfound lease on life....IT WILL WORK!!

Obviously, the first step is a big one. Getting back to seeing your doc should be your first goal. Hopefully, he/she will understand your reasons, and allow a payment plan as the poster above described. Best wishes for you to find this same happy/successful ending. YOU CAN DO THIS!

I did the same thing. First thing is to call your doctor and talk to them explain what has happened. They will most likely want to work with you. You need to have them check your band to make sure you are ok then see if you need a fill. Start back following the guidelines asap. This has to be a change of life for you not a diet. I got back on track and did not look back and did very well. You can too if you really want to. Be honest with yourself and with your doctor. Feel free to message me at hely lb on facebook if you need some suggestions. If I can do it anyone can!!

I agree... the first step is to see your surgeon and go from there. Don't worry about problems that may not exist. Paying for your own treatments may help you stay motivated.

Focus on the good and overcome the bad. Dont get frustrated, and definately dont give up. Be positive and seeking help IS the first step. I have kept a diary for three months now and it helps. I was 'no angel' by any means but, I've fallen and gotten back up to lose some more. Talk to a Dr. for sure..but pat yourself on the back and find the strength to become the person you know you should be. This is a life change, for the better.

Riah.815 first of all I am so sorry that you needed WLS at such a tender age. My daughter had gastric bypass surgery 11 years ago at the tender age of 16 and no child should have to go through that. She also went off to college a couple years later and regained almost all of it back but two years ago she decided to try again on her own And she lost 100 lb. refocus and look for a lap band dr in your area. While you get the doctor issue sorted out, try your best to eliminate the bad food choices and control your portions. That will be a great start. Whatever you do don't give up and find a doctor that will help you. Lots of hugs to you.