Hi everyone. I'm converting my band to a sleeve on December 29th 2014. I would like to find someone who has also had a conversion done to share their experience strength and hope with me. I live in Florida however, it is not necessary to live in the same state. I am a little nervous about taking the band off and converting to a gastric sleeve all in one surgery. They have not asked me to go on any type of liquid diet. But from what I can see most people do so maybe I should. I'm not sure what the reasoning is behind the liquid diet they did not have me do that for my band either. I paid out of pocket for my band and here again and paying out of pocket for my sleeve. I'm very frustrated that my band has slipped and I am having the sleeve done with much hesitation. Please send some help my way.

I have not had a conversion, just the sleeve surgery on Dec. 3, 2014. I hope I can help with some of your questions, from my own experiences. First, the reason for the preop diet of liquids is to reduce the size of the liver so the surgeon can see better to do the surgery. If you've already lost weight, they may feel you have no need to do that. They will be putting you on liquid diets, pureed diets and soft food diets before you go back to normal food after the surgery, which can be challenging if you're not patient enough to wait them out. My surgery came with the surprise of a hiatal hernia repair done at the same time. Very minor pain compared to most of the surgeries I've had. Five little scars. Healed quickly and well. Lost 25lbs so far, I only weigh in once a week. I live in Washington, but would be happy to help if you need more questions answered. Good luck and Merry Christmas!