Hello everyone! I am considering getting the Lap band surgery! So is my Husband. We have been doing a lot of research and i think it's fantastic that there is a forum for lap banded ppl! That being said, i have a question that i have been searching the forums for,and still havnt come across an answer.....both me and my hubby are wondering this. What happens to banded people say, 5 or 10 years down the line? Do you keep the band in place forever? Do you take it out? Wont your stomach go back to a normal size if the band is removed? I want to know this. Can someone please answer this for me? Thanks!

T.

yes the band does stay in and yes your stomach would be as it was b4 surgery i was banded 24th Nov 07 and have lost over 112lb so far i still have 86 lb to g but it the best thing i have ever done. I highly recommed it as my life has changed for the best. good luck to you both

floridachica, cavilier2us is correct; the band is "meant" to remain in place the rest of your life. Of course, it has only been around since 1993 (in other countries) so there is no data yet on if that is possible or feasible.

However when the band is removed (for whatever reason) the stomach usually (99% or some high figure) goes back to it's former shape and the patient regains all weight lost.

So plan on it being there unless a medical necessity dictates removal.

Some bandsters, once they hit their goal weight and are doing well, get a slight unfill. That is always an option if you are maintaining your loss.

Go in, however, assuming it will be in place as long as you need it.

Floridachica, I am from south Florida too. I just found this site and have been researching this procedure. Look forward to seeing more posts from you.

Barbara