Scuba and the Band

restrict2008 · February 10, 2008

I love scuba diving, and I was wondering what info you have all gotten.

I realize that ideally the band has only Fluid in it, I am worring that air trapped in the pouch and stomach during an uncontrolled ascent might cause a slip. I called Inamed and they said no research had been done on it and therefore could not give me an answer. My Doc offered an unfil before going (for the standard fee of course!)

From what I have read on here many have gone without any problems! I was wondering if i should limit my dives to places with a cable or rope so i can better control how fast I surface.

Any thoughts??

Kat817 · February 10, 2008

Try bumping your post a few times. I think I remember Wheetsin having info on scuba diving with the band. Just keep it refreshed until someone with some answers can help you--unfortunately that is not me!!!

Good luck finding your info!

Kat

restrict2008 · February 10, 2008

thanks- I read all of the previous posts, they addressed the fact that the band itself can withstand pressure changes, I am more concerned that an air bubble in the fundus could expand with ascent causing a slip- I dont think anyone has addressed that!

how do i "bump" my post??

Kat817 · February 10, 2008

You just did it!!! Anytime you re-post in it, it brings it back to the top---where you chance more people seeing it!

Referred to as a bump!

Kat

restrict2008 · February 11, 2008

thanks Kat- and way to go on your amazing weight loss- I bet u are a hottie in a scuba suit now!!

Kat817 · February 11, 2008

LOL---I don't think so!!! I spit and sputter when the shower hits me in the face!!! Closest I have ever come is to go snorkeling in Hawaii---will leave the scuba diving to you brave sorts!!!

Kat

restrict2008 · February 11, 2008

Do you get unfills before you go??

sobrien32 · March 3, 2008

I would like to know the answer as well. I was told by my Dr that he has a few patients who scuba with no problems at all. However, I'm sure there were no quick assents. I know of a friend who a band and flys a twin engine cessna. He has never had an issue in the unpressurized cabin and I know he has said before he has had some air in the system. Thinking more about it if you come to an uncontrolled ascent I think a sliped band is the least of your problems. Just be careful and dive as you always have and I would think you are going to be all right. Good Luck.

restrict2008 · March 3, 2008

I fly (only single engine cessna)- the pressure difference at altitude is not as marked as under Water. I have a dive computer, there have def been times when I ascended too fast- even if it was for just 10 feet.

KimInMD · March 4, 2008

Hi Restrict,

Most surgeons now stitch the band into place, so slippage should not be a concern. If you are in doubt, ask your surgeon if he stitches his band patients. Stomach and pouch constriction and re-inflation is minimal when you stay within the recommended depths of recreational diving.

I agree with Sobrien's post. In an uncontrolled emergency assent situation, a slipped band may be the very least of your worries. Safety lines (below 15 feet) are there for uncertified divers (Discover Scuba Lesson), and not for certified divers, unless there are significant issues with current or visibility. Ascending on the mooring line is always an option unless you are drift diving. Just watch out for fire coral growing on the line. Honestly though, most uncontrolled ascents occur DURING THE DIVE when you accidentally hit your power inflater, or lose some or all of your weights. If either of those things happen, you wouldn't be near a mooring line anyway. Although I get a bit tight on flying day, I have never once had a problem in any situation, nor have I ever been concerned with my band slipping. I have never been unfilled before a dive trip. Relax, and enjoy the beautiful blue. You'll be just fine. As you lose weight, remember to make adjustments as to how much weight to use. I make sure I write it all down in my log so that I have a starting point for the first dive at the next destination. For the first dive, I always have to re-adjust to find my new neutral buoyancy point. As you lose weight you'll also be changing sizes in your BCD, wet suit, mask and even fin size!

The only other thing I noticed is that I now get cold faster without as much body fat. You may find you need to make an adjustment in the mil thickness of the suit that you normally wear. Have fun!

restrict2008 · March 4, 2008

what a great post- thank you!

tlambright1986 · March 4, 2008

i also LOVE to dive..although i went diving only once since the band ..i didnt have any probs!! i thought there would be some but nope everything went as normal as it always does.. i know now all i need is a new wetsuit.. lol mine is WAY to big!!!