Eight Years banded
hi Snickerdoodle
If your going to have a sleeve done it may be a wise step to have an Esophageal Manometry done before proceeding to a VSG.
I mention this because if you had what felt like chest pains that was more than likely your Esophagus :( And if it's not functioning properly a sleeve may not be the answer. Better to be safe than sorry ;)
If it's found that you do have issues an RNY or DS are always viable options.
on 3/26/16 9:39 pm
I was banded 6-1/2 years ago and just had a revision to the gastric this month. Having the band taken out was the best decision I made. There haven't been any long term studies on how long the band can last in the body. I haven't see any banders last longer than 10 years. The only regret I have is not having the band removed sooner. It caused me terrible pain and troubles. Best of luck to you.