I am a lapband patient who got their band in 2004 (self-pay). The band has given me nothing but complications - mostly of the gastric reflux variety and being unable to lie flat in bed at night.

My doctor finally told me it's time to consider the sleeve or another band (gag). He believes I might have a heital hernia that may need to be repaired.

So here I am, looking for a better answer than the Band. I look forward to reading your insight on this procedure.

Totally understood - now the dr's office has told me that insurance probably won't cover anything, because at my highest weight, I had a BMI of 39 and no comobidities. If I had a BMI of 40, it would have been fine.

How crazy is that?

Next time you go to the doctors put some lead weights in your pockets. Complain of being breathless when you exercise, wheeze a bit, and also claim lower back pain.

Just a thought :drool5:

My BMI is 35 now - but if only I had thought of it then:) They want to know the highest BMI I was in the last 10 years.

Duodenal switch is the first part to the sleeve.

Psst. It's the other way around: VSG is the first part of the DS.

That was what a meant. I typed it wrong!:001_smile:

I had a surprise hiatal hernia repair during my surgery and have not had ANY problems. Go for the sleeve. So worth it.

I am also a self pay, our insurance wouldn't cover any weight loss surgery no matter how many co morbities I had. So I found a surgeon and care credit.com and just did the sleeve. Its been 2 weeks and I'm so happy I decided to go with the sleeve, its the best decision I have ever made!!!

hey everyone,

im a 18 year old female, im flying down to mexicali on monday to get the sleeve done...im getting very excited and VERY nervious:wink1:...is there any edvice or anyone that would like to talk to me and give me and answer some questions?!?

thanks:thumbup:

We are all happy to answer any questions you may have.

Hi DeeGirl - welcome to our family. ASK any questions you may have - if you're not comfortable asking them in an open forum, then PM some of us and we'll be happy to answer your questions. You will be in GREAT hands with Dr. Aceves and his staff.