Jump to content
×
Are you looking for the BariatricPal Store? Go now!

Whats the longest any of you have heard of someone having the band without complication?



Recommended Posts

The first Lapband surgery was preformed in 1993. 20 years is not a long time when you are planning on a lifetime. I guess time will tell.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Lapbands of 20 years ago are not the same as the ones placed now. They have improved by leaps and bounds, and issues with earlier bands have been addressed to try to mitigate against some of those earlier complications.

Comparing sleeve and lapband, to me is like comparing apples and oranges. The sleeve has a complication rate of 2% (to date) and the lapband over 5%, but complications from the sleeve tend to be more severe due to the inability to reverse the effects of the sleeve, whereas lapband complications, for the most part, can be corrected, either with an unfill or with further surgery. However, the sleeve is very much 'set and forget' whereas frequent aftercare is absolutely crucial with a band. Weight loss with a sleeve is much easier to achieve, but on average the weight loss of both is comparable 5 years out, you just have to work harder (imo) with a band. So the two aren't really easily compared.

As for longevity, in Australia where the band has been in use (and I believe is still the most used WLS) for over 15 years, we actually have studies that show a good prognosis for long term use. But I think as with every surgery, you have to go in expecting that you might be one of the unlucky ones who will have a complication, and if you do, to weigh up the avenues that you have available to you to fix your issue. My first band wasn't for life, and was replaced after 5 years due to band failure (a leak) but I'm hoping my new band lasts a lot longer than that.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Lapbands of 20 years ago are not the same as the ones placed now. They have improved by leaps and bounds' date=' and issues with earlier bands have been addressed to try to mitigate against some of those earlier complications.

Comparing sleeve and lapband, to me is like comparing apples and oranges. The sleeve has a complication rate of 2% (to date) and the lapband over 5%, but complications from the sleeve tend to be more severe due to the inability to reverse the effects of the sleeve, whereas lapband complications, for the most part, can be corrected, either with an unfill or with further surgery. However, the sleeve is very much 'set and forget' whereas frequent aftercare is absolutely crucial with a band. Weight loss with a sleeve is much easier to achieve, but on average the weight loss of both is comparable 5 years out, you just have to work harder (imo) with a band. So the two aren't really easily compared.

As for longevity, in Australia where the band has been in use (and I believe is still the most used WLS) for over 15 years, we actually have studies that show a good prognosis for long term use. But I think as with every surgery, you have to go in expecting that you might be one of the unlucky ones who will have a complication, and if you do, to weigh up the avenues that you have available to you to fix your issue. My first band wasn't for life, and was replaced after 5 years due to band failure (a leak) but I'm hoping my new band lasts a lot longer than that.[/quote']

Thx Lellow

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

The manufacturer states in the disclaimer that it is NOT a lifetime product.

The BAND itself will most likely be fine. It's made of an inflatable silicone material that doesn't "break" easily. The problem is our bodies. The band is a high pressure system and affects the esophagus greatly. It also can damage the diaphragm and the nerves that run through it. The band causes scar tissue to build up around your internal organs. That can affect your body's ability to function well and normally.

I personally had two bands. Both caused serious damage that has become permanent.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

The manufacturer states in the disclaimer that it is NOT a lifetime product.

The BAND itself will most likely be fine. It's made of an inflatable silicone material that doesn't "break" easily. The problem is our bodies. The band is a high pressure system and affects the esophagus greatly. It also can damage the diaphragm and the nerves that run through it. The band causes scar tissue to build up around your internal organs. That can affect your body's ability to function well and normally.

I personally had two bands. Both caused serious damage that has become permanent.

Wow. Thank you guys so much. I'm interested in the sleeve, but my dr recommends the band for me. Doing my due diligence.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

from: https://www.lapband.com/

Important LAP-BAND® System Safety Information

Indications: The LAP-BAND® System is indicated for weight reduction for patients with obesity, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 kg/m2 or a BMI of at least 30 kg/m2 with one or more obesity-related comorbid conditions.

It is indicated for use only in adult patients who have failed more conservative weight reduction alternatives, such as supervised diet, exercise and behavior modification programs. Patients who elect to have this surgery must make the commitment to accept significant changes in their eating habits for the rest of their lives.

Contraindications: The LAP-BAND® System is not recommended for non-adult patients, patients with conditions that may make them poor surgical candidates or increase the risk of poor results (e.g., inflammatory or cardiopulmonary diseases, GI conditions, symptoms or family history of autoimmune disease, cirrhosis), who are unwilling or unable to comply with the required dietary restrictions, who have alcohol or drug addictions, or who currently are or may be pregnant.

Warnings: The LAP-BAND® System is a long-term implant. Explant and replacement surgery may be required. Patients who become pregnant or severely ill, or who require more extensive nutrition may require deflation of their bands. Anti-inflammatory agents, such as aspirin, should be used with caution and may contribute to an increased risk of band erosion.

Adverse Events: Placement of the LAP-BAND® System is major surgery and, as with any surgery, death can occur. Possible complications include the risks associated with the medications and methods used during surgery, the risks associated with any surgical procedure, and the patient's ability to tolerate a foreign object implanted in the body.

Band slippage, erosion and deflation, reflux, obstruction of the stomach, dilation of the esophagus, infection, or nausea and vomiting may occur. Reoperation may be required.

Rapid weight loss may result in complications that may require additional surgery. Deflation of the band may alleviate excessively rapid weight loss or esophageal dilation.

Important: For full safety information please visit www.lapband.com, talk with your doctor, or call Allergan Product Support at 1-800-624-4261.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

so far no complications

my success so far, outweigh the risks that are clearly outlined

and if in the future something does happen, i will work with my dr then

and until then (i cant forsee that) but i am now living my life, healthier/happier

and no longer super morbid obese.......def worth it for me to take that small chance.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I met a lady that has had her Lap Band since 2001, so 12 years. She was one of the first to get her band after the FDA approved it for use in the US.

She's kept off all her weight for a decade and zero problems.

I look at like this: There is a 5% chance of serious complications by no fault of the patient. The chances I'd die from obesity related diseases and/or complications was almost guaranteed. For me, the choice was a no brainer.

Best wishes.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

My Patient Activist at True Results (here in Austin) has been banded for 10 years with zero complications.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I have had the band for ten years and have had complications. The band is not designed for longer than ten years...google research studies that have been done that are NOT paid for by the band manufactuer. I highly recommend getting the sleeve and not the band. I am in the (long) process of appealing insurance so I can revise from band to sleeve. Do not buy what other say about "having to make lifelong changes..." etc. The band does not work long term no matter what changes you make. One study I found said that all the bands placed in a hospital in 2000 have all been removed. DO NOT GET A BAND.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I got my band about 11 years ago. My support group consisted of about 100 people who also got bands around the same time I did. I can think of four people who still have bands. Not the original ones, though. They had to have subsequent surgeries.

The band is not a lifetime device. It's not even a long term device, quite honestly. The damage it can do is for a lifetime, though. I am still on a multitude of medications to counteract the damage the band did to my body.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I got my band about 11 years ago. My support group consisted of about 100 people who also got bands around the same time I did. I can think of four people who still have bands. Not the original ones, though. They had to have subsequent surgeries.

The band is not a lifetime device. It's not even a long term device, quite honestly. The damage it can do is for a lifetime, though. I am still on a multitude of medications to counteract the damage the band did to my body.

I'm sorry you had problems, but saying "it's not even a long term device" simply isn't true. Just because you had problems doesn't mean all of us will.

Statistically speaking, it IS a long term and successful device with a very low rate of non-patient caused complications: http://www.futurity.org/health-medicine/weight-stays-off-long-after-lap-band-surgery/

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

It's not a long term device unless you plan on only living for a decade. Not many human bodies will withstand the band's presence for that long, unfortunately. I am only trying to help the original poster in her research.

She is asking for opinions. She hasn't been banded yet. If people who have already gotten bands are happy with them, more power to them. But I believe it's important for people who haven't yet chosen the band to know the less "happy" side because the seminars don't give out all that information. Ultimately she'll choose for herself what is best for her, but I wish someone had told me BEFORE surgery that the advertising is just that- advertising-trying to sell a product. It's important to know the truth.

I realize no one likes to imagine that they'll have band issues and it makes people defensive. I'm used to being told that "just because it happened to you doesn't mean it will happen to me." :( And I always hope they're right.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites
Guest
This topic is now closed to further replies.

  • Trending Products

  • Trending Topics

  • Recent Status Updates

    • vsg.with.sharon

      Hey everyone!
      I’m new here! Looking for some friends! 🥰
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • LeighaTR

      Four days post surgery. I am sipping as fast as I can and getting NO WHERE near the goal of 60 - 80 grams of protein or the 64 oz of liquids. I just feel FULL. I don't know if it can still be the gas build up (I would think by now that would be gone) but it is a struggle to drink. And so far I have not had the nausea or spasms and don't want to wander into that territory by pushing too hard with liquids. I about passed out today as it was my most "strenuous" day. Went from second story to basement for shower and I was sure I was going to pass out. Looking back on my last few days I have had a total of less than 1000 calories. Am I just not getting enough nourishment in me? Once again a friday where I can't get ahold of the doc until Monday rolls back around so I am hoping maybe someone here has some experience on how to keep energy going. I do have fibromyalgia too and that may be where some added fatigue comes into play. How did you all fair with the goals the week after surgery?
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Doughgurl

      2 days until I fly out to San Diego to have my Bypass Surg. in Tiajuana Mexico. Not gonna lie, the nerves are starting to surface. I don't fear the surgery itself, or the fact that I'm traveling alone, but its the aftermath that I'm stressing about the most, after this 8 week wait. I'm excited to finally be here, but I am really dreading the post surgical chapter. I know its going to be tough, real tough and I think I'm just in my head to much now that the day i here. Wish me luck, Hopefully I'm one of the lucky ones, and everything goes smoothly. Cant wait to give an exciting update,. If there is anyone else have a June bypass or even a recent one, Id love to have someone to compare war stories with. Also, anyone near San Antonio Tx? See ya soon with the future me. 💜
      · 3 replies
      1. Phil Penn

        Good Luck this procedure is well worth it I am down to 249.6 lb please continue with the process..

      2. Selina333

        I'm in Houston so kind of near you and had the sleeve in Dec. Down 61 lbs. Feeling better. Was definitely worth it. I hope the everything is going well for you. Update us when you can!

      3. Doughgurl

        I am back home after my bypass surgery in Tiajuana. I'm post op day 4. Everything went great! I guess I'm one of the lucky ones who have not encountered much pain at all, no nausea thus far and I'm having no problem keeping down broths and water. Thank you for your well wishes. I cant wait to keep up this journey and have a chance at better health and simply better quality of life. I know there will be bumps in the road ahead, and everything won't be peaches and cream, but at least I have a great start so far. 😍

    • LeighaTR

      I am new here today... and only two weeks out from my sleeve surgery on the 23rd. I am amazed I have kept my calories down to 467 today so far... that leaves me almost 750 left for dinner and maybe a snack. This is going to be tough for two weeks... but I have to believe I can do it!
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Doughgurl

      Hey everyone. I'm new here so I thought I should introduce myself. I am 53y/o and am scheduled for Gastric Bypass on June 25th, 2025. I'm located in San Antonio, Texas. I will be having my surgery in Tiajuana Mexico. I've wanted this for years, but I always had insurance where bariatric procedures were excluded. Finally I am able to afford to pay out of pocket.  I can't wait to get started, and I hope I'm prepared for the initial period of "hell". I know what I have signed up for, but I'm sure the good to come will out way the temporary period of discomfort and feelings of regret. I'd love to find people to talk to who have been through the same procedure or experience before. So I look forward to meeting you all. Hope you have a great week!
      · 2 replies
      1. Selina333

        I'm so happy for you! You are about to change your life. I was so glad to get the sleeve done in Dec. I didn't have feelings of regret overall. And I'm down almost 60 lbs. I do feel a little sad at restaurants. I can barely eat half a kid's meal. I get adults meals often because kid ones don't have the same offerings at times. Then I feel obligated to eat on that until it's gone and that can be days. So the restaurant thing isn't great for me. All the rest is fine by me! I love feeling full with very little. I do wish I could drink when eating. And will sip at the end. Just a strong habit to stop. But I'm working on it! You will do fine! Just keep focused on your desire to be different. Not better or worse. But different. I am happy both ways but my low back doesn't like me that heavy. So I listened (also my feet!). LOL! Update us on your journey! I'm not far from you. I'm in Houston. Good luck and I hope it all goes smoothly! Would love to see pics of the town you go to for this. I've never been there. Neat you will be traveling for this! Enjoy the journey. Take it one day at a time. Sometimes a few hours at a time. Follow all recommendations as best you can. 💗

      2. Doughgurl

        Thank you so much for your well wishes. I am hoping that everything goes easy for me as well. We don't eat out much as it is, so it wont be too bad in that department. Thankfully. Also, I hear you regarding your back and feet!! I'd like to add knees to the list. Killing me as we speak! I'm only 5' so the weight has to go. Too short to carry all this weight. Menopause really did a doosey on me. (😶lol) My daughter also lives in Houston. with her Husband and my 5 grand-littles. I grew up in Beaumont, so I know Houston well, I will be sure to keep in touch and update you on my journey. I may need some advice in the future, or just motivation. Thank You so much for reaching out, I was hoping to connect with someone in the community. I really appreciate it. 💜

  • Recent Topics

  • Hot Products

  • Sign Up For
    Our Newsletter

    Follow us for the latest news
    and special product offers!
  • Together, we have lost...
      lbs

    PatchAid Vitamin Patches

    ×