After 14 years, I had my lap band removed. I feel good, no post op issues, concerned that I will gain weight. My goal is to eat as if I had my lap band in place. About 6-8 months ago, I began experiencing an increase in acid reflux and symptoms related to GERDs. Two endoscopic exams showed tissue damage due to acid reflux, indications of Barrett's Esophagus, and band slippage. After a daily dose of Prilosec, the second exam six weeks after the first, eliminated Barrett's Esophagus concerns, but confirmed band slippage. Post Op of the lap band in 2005, I lost 105 lbs. Within three years, I gained about 20 lbs and maintained +/- 5 lbs for approximately 9 years to 2014. Leading up to retirement and after, I began the yo-yo weight loss-gain cycle, mostly gain. I am still down 65 lbs post op from 2005, but it has been a struggle. I think the acid reflux and early stages of GERDs was a turning point. I had been considering revision to a Gastric Sleeve for sometime, the removal of the band brought the decision to a head. However, due to the restrictive elements of a sleeve and my recent acid reflux and GERDs symptoms, my surgeon is recommending gastric by-pass over gastric sleeve. After several discussions and a lot of research, we are working toward gastric by-pass surgery possibly in March 2020. I am working on checking all the boxes for Medicare approval. The psych evaluation is complete and passed, in month 3 of the physician monitored nutrition and weight loss program, meetings with surgeon and staff, physical evaluation and recommendation from pcp is in the works. Without the restriction of my lap band, I am concerned about overeating and gaining weight during the transition while my lap band sites heals and Medicare approval.

Hello and welcome, hope it all goes well for you. March will be here before you know it!

Your story sounds just like mine. On Nov 20 I had a slipped band removed and a conversion to a bypass all in one surgery. I also am Medicare, and fortunately (unfortunately) I had regained enough weight through the years of fighting with my band that I qualified after all the rest of the requirements.

I'm sorry you are having these problems, but you are in a LARGE group of people with lap band woes. The time will pass quickly . I hope all goes well in your journey--keep us posted!