So I was banded in 2006 and was very young. Now almost 10 years later my band has created a lot of problems. I learned to live with all the discomforts. Severe acid reflux, throwing up, and the pain in my stomach. I went to the dr 6 weeks ago (I hadn't been in 6 years for my band) and was told I needed an EGD. During the EGD the acid in and on my esophagus was so bad it did some damage that might effect me long term and the scope showed my band was in bad shape (some erosion). I ended up aspirating acid during the procedure and got bacterial pneumonia. I was in the hospital for 7 days. My follow up apt was today with my dr. He told me the band has to come out and that's not an option. So here is where I need help. My dr wants to put the sleeve in. I'm not sure. I don't know anyone with a sleeve and I want to know if it is worth it. I've been through hell and back with my band and I'm afraid this will happen with the sleeve but I don't want to gain my weight back either...I lost 60lbs with my band and kept it off but still need to lose 40. I'm afraid to live without some form of restriction. I'm afraid to live without my band.

Any help is appreciated...

Thanks

Edited August 19, 201510 yr by zoe4533

Hi - I hear you! I had my band removed in Jan. After 10 successful years. I had severe stomach pain and the Fill's stopped working. It was emotionally a huge thing to deal with. I feel for you. I am now having The Vertical Sleeve on Sept. 8th as I need a tool to keep my extra weight off. Get lots of support and keep reaching out! ????????????

My sister has the sleeve and it worked great for her. I was banded in 2009 and am going to be getting it out and switching to the sleeve. I've been having many issues with reflux, stomach pain, etc. I never know from one day to the next what I'll be able to eat or IF I'll even be able to hold Water down.

There's a whole forum under the gastric sleeve section for band to sleeve revisions too, btw Lots of helpful info there!