Started Process Today

[AZPete 20]

Ok so yesterday I had my upper GI done and the radiologist was extremely distressed by the position of the band, the severe reflux, the dialation of the pouch and esophagus, and the fact that barely a drop a barium went through. Fast forward to this morning and after ignoring the radiologist's request that I immediately go upstairs to have my fill completely removed, I did just that. They quickly removed all of my fill. Then stated that I have a dialated pouch and stretched out my esophagus. My band may also be slipped, but not officially stated yet as such, but with all of the symptoms, it fits that diagnosis. They stated that more and more of us are having trouble as the years go by. I was a model patient for the first year, then complications struck. Major surgery to repair, then it was never the same. Extremely painful to eat, led to eating only foods that didn't hurt. I haven't gained much back, about 20lbs. But I see that changing. We are discussing a revision. Probably the VSG which they believe will phase out the band in the future. I don't knock the band completely, it did give me my life back, however with this foreign body inside of me, things have been complicated at times to say the least. So it looks like I'll enjoy a good thanksgiving dinner and that the new year will bring a new partner in helping keep off the weight. Any info on what to expect and/or consider would be appreciated.

[vicki s 146]

Ok so yesterday I had my upper GI done and the radiologist was extremely distressed by the position of the band, the severe reflux, the dialation of the pouch and esophagus, and the fact that barely a drop a barium went through. Fast forward to this morning and after ignoring the radiologist's request that I immediately go upstairs to have my fill completely removed, I did just that. They quickly removed all of my fill. Then stated that I have a dialated pouch and stretched out my esophagus. My band may also be slipped, but not officially stated yet as such, but with all of the symptoms, it fits that diagnosis. They stated that more and more of us are having trouble as the years go by. I was a model patient for the first year, then complications struck. Major surgery to repair, then it was never the same. Extremely painful to eat, led to eating only foods that didn't hurt. I haven't gained much back, about 20lbs. But I see that changing. We are discussing a revision. Probably the VSG which they believe will phase out the band in the future. I don't knock the band completely, it did give me my life back, however with this foreign body inside of me, things have been complicated at times to say the least. So it looks like I'll enjoy a good thanksgiving dinner and that the new year will bring a new partner in helping keep off the weight. Any info on what to expect and/or consider would be appreciated.

I had a revision done in Feb. due to a prolapse of my band and i am now going for vsg on nov 1st after gaining 40 lbs back. good luck on whatever you decide, I went to a support meeting last nite and they said the band will be obsolete in about 5 years...

[dbrar88 5]

I had my revision Sept 27th and couldn't be happier to be without the band. Even though I didn't have any real complications, it's extremly nice not worrying about if I eat a certain food, will it go down, where is the nearest bathroom "just in case", etc.

My son even asked me last night, mom, do you like not have to throw up all the time now? The answer is most definitely YES!!!!

Good luck!!!!

[TexasT 99]

I had my revision done on January 8, 2010 and am elated to NOT have the horrible piece of plastic in my body anymore. Because my surgeon had sewn my port in VERY well, it was an ordeal to take out and left a large opening inside that filled with blood (a hematoma). This is perfectly normal and the blood usually re-absorbs into your body over time. Unfortunately, mine opened up via the incision above it and blood went everywhere. It was a bit scary when it happened. I went to the hospital, my surgeon was there and he cleaned and packed the wound for it to heal from the inside out. Once an incision like that comes open, they can't close it back up due to the possibility of infection. So for the next couple of months I cleaned and packed the wound daily until it healed.

I also had an undiagnosed hiatal hernia, but if you've had an uppper GI and it didn't show up, you should be good to go on that front. Other than that, expect to live a happier and more carefree life once you have the band out. I'm at goal weight and feel great now.

[LilMissDiva Irene 3,282]

I was revised from band to sleeve on Sept. 15th in an all in one surgery. I did not need to do it in two steps, as I didn't have any major damage enough that my surgeon felt it necessary.

I'm only six weeks out and I can already tell you, the sleeve knocks it outta the ballpark and the band is more akin to a bunt. A good bunt tho, one that gets ya on first base.

[Becca 108]

I am having my revision very soon! I am excited (and nervous) but this band has got to go! Welcome and we are here for you if you need us~

[Gracey 7]

Lil - girl you just HAD to go with a baseball metaphor, didn't you?!? (wait, if you used 'like' then it's a simile, right?). Nerd alert! Congrats again to your Giants, sugah!

[*susan* 1,709]

Your story sounds almost identical to mine. I actually ended up living on ice cream, because even without any fill at all, it was the only thing that would go down and stay down. Not only is it not healthy, but your quality of life just drops drastically because of it.

I think you will be very happy with your revision choice. There are many of us here who have done it and not regretted it for one moment. Let us know how things are going, and enjoy your Thanksgiving!

[LilMissDiva Irene 3,282]

Lil - girl you just HAD to go with a baseball metaphor, didn't you?!? (wait, if you used 'like' then it's a simile, right?). Nerd alert! Congrats again to your Giants, sugah!

Hee!! You know... I had to take a break from the 'net over the weekend. I was getting way over obsessed -- so guess what I did instead. Slept!

Thanks, I can use the baseball metaphor for just about any situation anytime. You just got to give me a moment to think about it. ;o)