I had lapband surgery approximately 5 years ago. I did very, very well. I started off at 289 pounds after years of hormone therapy and poor eating habits. 5 months before my surgery, I started eating as if I had already had lapband surgery. I lost

60 pounds. I lost so much weight my insurance company almost refused to pay for the surgery. I made a quick decision to have it within a few weeks. I was so concerned that I would yoyo and not be able to maintain. I believe the most I ever had in my band was about 4 cc, which is not a lot as compared to some of my friends and acquaintances. . And I've had no Fluid in my band for a very, very long time. My lowest weight was 118, which was my original weight in my early twenties. Although I felt OK, I feel my best and even look healthier when I'm maintaining 140 to 150 pounds. Without any fluid in my band, I'm pretty much able to maintain that. However, I started having problems swallowing. That then moved to dehydration. Long story short, at this point it is probable I have scar tissue wrapped around my lap band because all these symptoms point towards it. It has to be removed and will be on July the 7th. I MUST EMPHASIZE THAT THE LAPBAND WAS GOOD FOR ME EVEN IF NOT FOR OTHERS. MY PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE UNAVOIDABLE SCAR TISSUE.

I am basically on high Protein and high calorie liquids although I am able to eat some slider foods. Funny enough, all the bad stuff goes down relatively easy as long as I'm drinking. meats are out of the question, especially chicken and pork. Even milkshakes have become my friend. In just a few weeks I've gained about 23 pounds. The edema is back in my ankles and calves. Blood pressures are up. Cholesterol is already up. All of these things were absolutely perfect after I lost the weight.

I know I've been able to maintain, but I think I am panicking again. I am worried about putting on weight. It's not about appearance. Is it about my health. My family saw me lose the weight before my lap band surgery and saw me pretty much maintain without a lot of band influence for a few years. Therefore, no one is very on board with me considering the gastric sleeve. They feel it is drastic, but having attended the class and spoken to a sleeve patient, I am moving forward with the surgery and I'm excited.

I am looking for any tidbits of advice that anyone may have for preoperative and immediate postoperative at this time. I feel I have a little knowledge advantage because I've been there before. But, especially if you have converted, I would love to know your thoughts...

I'm band to sleeve, but my story is very different from yours (night choking meant I couldn't keep enough fluid in my band for it to help me) and I'm only a week out from sleeve, so can't compare much at this point. But I think the sleeve will be great for you. Keep in mind, that us revisioners do have a higher risk of complications due to the scar tissue and such. But I'm so glad I did it. Good luck to you.