Revisions: Some Surgeons Won't Remove Band

fabfatgrl · November 15, 2007

I just wanted to give you all a heads-up that I've contacted a few surgeons regarding a revision, and some of them either refuse to remove your Band (although they'll do another surgery).. or leave the port in place, because it's too much of a pain for them to remove.

This is really troublesome to me as my Band gives me problems even with no fill. I told this to the surgeon's coordinator and she said it was his policy to leave the Band in place and he was very firm on it. (Obviously, he will not be my surgeon!)

Just wanted to give you all a heads-up on this. Whoever thought we might be stuck with the darn thing or at least the port.

Brittwoman · November 16, 2007

I'm so sorry to hear that. I have A WONDERFUL surgeon, that not only removed every single part of my band from me, but he also did my revision to RNY when I was healed from my removal and repair job and did an amazing job!!! I feel GREAT and also blessed to have found such a skilled and caring surgeon!!

fabfatgrl · November 16, 2007

You're very lucky Brittwoman!

I was so shocked when this surgeon told me this. I was like... are you serious?? Even if it's troubling me?? Then I was watching some of the MGB videos on youtube and Dr. Rutledge says that he used to take out the ports, but it took too long to find it... so he doesn't bother anymore. He does remove the Band from the stomach, though.

Glad to hear you're doing so well. How are you enjoying life with an RNY? Are you still on mushies and such or have you moved on to real foods?? What does the pouch feel like compared to a Band?

Brittwoman · November 16, 2007

My new life with the RNY has been great! I'm 6 weeks post-op now and I've been on real foods for 2 weeks now. My surgeon had me on 2 weeks of sugar free liquids, then 2 weeks of puree foods, and then came the real food I find eating much more EASY with the RNY pouch. I have no more reflux, PB'ing is just a bad memory, no more slimies too :clap: The diet is basically the same...only eat foods with less then 14 grams of carbs and less then 7 grams of sugar. 3 meals a day only, drink your Water (64+ ozs) and the most IMPORTANT aspect of any WLS...EXERCISE Oh BTW...I'm down 24.5 lbs since day of surgery :clap2: The BEST part!!

Jane

Jachut · November 16, 2007

wow, that's a bit harsh isnt it? Many people have trouble even with unfilled bands.

It must be different there, or maybe I'm idealistic, but in my view, you go to a surgeon, you say I want my band removed, you're the customer, you're paying, they bloody well do what you ask!

I'd give him a piece of my mind, lol.

And why on earth should you have to have two separate ops for the revision?