Regrets??????

Hi C J. I also went through torture with my band. I was banded in 2004. At one point I believe my surgeon deliberately overfilled my band because I had the audacity to complain that I had to wait months for a fill adjustment. But even without that, the band was worse than useless. Five years ago I had them take out all the fill so I could eat normally. Of course, I then gained 50 pounds. The band works for some people, but for many it sucks.

I had the band-to-sleeve revision on Feb. 2 of this year. My healing has been fraught with complications -- slow incision healing, dehydration, a kidney infection requiring 2 visits to the ER, antibiotics and anti-nausea meds. I'm frustrated at the tiny amounts I'm able to eat (something I'm working on mentally). I still occasionally wonder if this was the biggest bonehead decision of my life.

Yet ... here's the thing. I am healing (and all the veterans say this can be a very difficult time). I've already lost 40-45 pounds from my highest weight. I've never been able to take off more than 20 pounds ever. My knees are already thanking me. I think I need a reduction in my blood pressure medication soon, as I get dizzy standing up quickly (must see my doc about that). These things (and I'm confident, most of the time, that there will be more) will save my life, and I hope, add many healthy years I would not otherwise have.

It's a tough decision, C J, and only you can make it. Good luck.

psychoticparrot

I wish I had a crystal ball.  I think the word I have tattooed in my brain is "reversible".  That was part of the Lap Band "kool-aid" I drank readily.  I always knew there were options.  When I think about how horrible that band was, I would be insane if I had to live the rest of my life that way.  I think that is why I'm so full of questions....IRREVERSABLE.   That is a chilling thought for me.  I know it will be work.  I just cant handle more torture I experienced with the band. 

Thanks to everyone *****sponded.  I am SO THANKFUL for ANY information. You guys are the best.