I'm a previous bandster who is thinking about getting the VSG. I was supposed to have my band swapped out for a new one but due to complications it was not possible. This happened in Nov'09. I am supposed to tell the doc this month how I want to proceed for a revision. He said we could try the band again, RNY, VSG, or nothing.

My insurance doesn't cover VSG but I have been looking into it since he mentioned it. I'm looking for any long term data on the VSG! It seems impossible. I looked on the OH page and its only goes back to Apr'09 which doesn't help. I don't want to jump on the band(no pun intended) wagon. I know no WLS is permanent or truly long term but I would like to know if I will be on somebody surgical table 5 yrs from now because this went wrong.

I know when I go back in I want to have some kind of tool, if not the VSG then I will be re-banded. By the time, it needs to be replaced again, maybe I will have a gauge on just how successful the VSG really is...or I will regret not doing it the 1st time (but hey by then my insurance should cover it).

I'll venture over to OH and find the links of successful VSG patients that are 5+ years out. A lot of time VSG patients quit posting because they are living a normal, successful life.

Give me a few minutes, I'll go grab the links and send you are Private message on here.

LapSF - Dr. Cirangle and Dr. Jossart, considered pioneers of the VSG here in the US, have a lot of information on their website.

Laparoscopic Associates: Benefits of Weight-Loss Surgery

Here's the link to Mac's profile on OH, and you can peruse her blog entry on the front page that has plenty of links for VSG results.

MacMadame's Profile

Thanks! I will look into it now.

I am so glad to have seen this. Great information. Tiffykins - you are a wealth of information and a great inspiration. Thank you!

Thanks Tiff!!!! You are such a positive, inspiring person!! Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge and inspiring us all!!!!!