So, I am 52 yrs old and I need to loose 50 lbs. surgery is scheduled for Aug 16th. I finally busted out and told my oldest sister, (R.N.) who is flipping out. She said she went on line to all the "cons" and talked about the dumping syndrome, and her friend who had the lap band who has to bring a change of clothes with her everywhere. ( do to pooping uncontrollably ) her friend is even heavier than before. Is there anyone out there who went from the lap band to the sleeve that can tell me the difference in your experiences ? My sister doesn't even know I am going to Mexico, she assumes I am doing it locally. I am single, my boyfriend is going with me, he isn't crazy about it but is going. Our parents are passed, so I know she is just being a big sister who is a nurse. Thoughts please?

I had a lap band done back in 2004 and I can tell you after having it for 9 years I never once had any "uncontrolled pooping" episodes. Honestly I've never heard of that complication. I'm in the process of trying to get sleeved. My lap band was removed in may due to forced bulimia, reflux and they just could not adjust it to work for me anymore. I lost most of my weight with the band from throwing up and just not being able to eat, at least not what I was supposed to be eating. I also no others who have been band, friends of mine and co workers and they have stalled with weight loss or have gained it back. Sorry I can't give you a revision story yet. That being said I do no someone that had her stomach removed decades ago due to ulcers and she is doing fine. Not saying there are not complications with this surgery but I know of many more with the band. My surgeon informed me most band patients are either having revision to sleeve or are patients that regained weight after bypass and are having band over bypass performed. Anything has risk, but I can tell you one thing, I'd never ask for my lap band back, ever. Good luck on your journey. Do what you think is right for you and not what someone else thinks. :-)