Hi guys! My name is Jaymie and I have been banded since 2007. I initially lost 70 of the 90 lbs I wanted to lose. I started developing really back heartburn and reflux and the Dr unfillled me and I have since gained 15 lbs. I still have heartburn everyday and the Dr will not refill me (I understand). The Dr suggested that I get the revision to a sleeve. I had never even heard abou the sleeve until then and I have been debating doing it since I am slowly gaining my weight back. Can anyone tell me what they paid for this procedure and how easy was the recovery? Are you seeing better results from the sleeve? NO throwing up? I know you have probably answered this question a million times but if you wouldn't mind patience with me and answering it one more time I would be greatful. Thanks!!

Hi Jaymie,

I'm only 2 weeks out from my band to sleeve revision so, I really can't tell you how well the band is helping with my weight loss. I was banded for 2 years. I lost 90# but gained back 20# while being unfilled. My problem was I could never achieve the "sweet spot" I was either too loose and could eat anything and quickly gain or too tight and would puke up everything and have horrible acid reflux. My doctor has been trying to convince me to revise to the sleeve for about a year. I needed that year to do a lot of research to see if it was going to be right for me. After my last complete unfill, I decided it was time. So far, so good! It is like night and day. I can eat without getting stuck, I haven't puked once, No more acid reflux and it doesn't hurt to eat like it did with my band. Right now, only 2 weeks out, I'm happy I've made the switch. I still have 15# to loose and I hope the sleeve will help me with that. However, at this point, I will be thrilled to just maintain my weight loss.

In all the research I did, I found that the vast majority of people that went from the band to the sleeve are extremely happy with the switch. My doctor won't even do the band anymore because of all the problems associated with them.

My revision was done in one surgery. It was much easier than my band surgery. Less pain and I'm feeling like myself much faster. The 1st week out I was very fatigued but not in pain. As a matter of fact, I haven't used any pain meds since coming home from the hospital. I know that everyone recovers in a different way. I guess I've been lucky.

Good luck in you decision. If you have any other questions just ask. People on this board are very helpful and friendly.

Shelli