Banding? Would you do it again?

I've been trying to decide whether or not to get banded for over a year now. I just can't seem to commit to a decision and I'm wondering whether those of you who have had this procedure, in hindsight, would do it again?

Overall, considering complications you may have had, the quickness or slowness of weight loss, etc. are you happy with having the surgery? Would you doing it again?

Thanks for your feedback,
L

 I think I would (do it again).  When I was banded in '06, my only choices were rNy or the band, and I decided on the band.  After hearing about others' complications, I've often wondered whether the sleeve (which wasn't on the table then) might have been a better choice.  The only issue I've dealt with after banding is related to excessive stomach acid, and the sleeve apparently has even more issues with that than the band.  So now, I dunno whether that would have been a good choice anyway.  

I can tell you for a fact, that the $13,900 that I paid for my (self-pay) band, and the minor inconveniences that it has brought were well worth it.  I've had almost five years of "normal" weight and good health.  It ain't perfect, and there are risks.  For me, they were worth it!

Tami

knock on wood Tami, without any acid reducers, lots of coffee and spicey foods, I have not a single issue with acid or reflux.  That was one of my biggest concerns along with a leak.

At 3 months, my sleeve is absolutely awesome!  I don't feel like a weight loss surgery patient at all.  I feel so normal it's ridiculous.  Who knows, this may change but God, I am blessed, truly blessed.

I did have reflux issues with the Band along with night coughs and choking during brief periods when I had issues with my band.  It was terrifying and I was extremely apprehensive about  being sleeved.  I count my blessings every single day.  I'm amazed!

Best,
Leila

 Hi Leila,

That's good to hear!  I know that acid reflux is not uncommon with VSG, because when I did an Advanced Search through Google looking for messages about acid reflux on this site, most of them were on that board.  But, I'm also seeing more and more messages on this forum from people who develop reflux further out from surgery.  

I'm glad to hear your revision is bringing you better health!

Tami

Tami if I'm not mistaken, I think with VSG the reflux is during the first few months during the healing? Not possitive about that, but I think I remember reading that about the VSG previously.

VSG'ers correct me if I am wrong on this?

over all why did you get your band removed??  Im looking to do the band next march or april due to ins process.\

Thanks Jennifer

I would not. Back in 2002 when I had lapband surgery, it was thought to be "safer" than the other WLS choices. However, I suffered from chronic pain issues and was physically harmed by the band.

A lot of folks experience referred left shoulder pain due to the band's close proximity to the diaphragm. The Vagus nerve system is the culprit and it's a fairly common complaint amongst the banded.  It's the nature of having an implanted device. The pain ranges from mildly annoying to severely debilitating. I had the latter... morning, noon and night. It never stopped and was maddening and depressing. There was nothing that could be done for it... and I was even put on Fentanyl patches... did nothing for the pain at all.  I had several "corrective" surgeries, but the damage was severe and the damage most likely permanent in my case.

I would very much advise against the band, not only due to my own unfortunate experience with it, but because there are better options now. If you're going to have major surgery, you want to have the best outcome possible.

No, I wouldn't do it again knowing what I know now. My band was nothing but pain and misery and poor weight loss. I've had much greater success and am much happier with my sleeve.

Best of luck,
Lindsey

HELL YES oct 20th will be 1 year weight is down 69 ponds dr says this is the way he wants it i am off my diabetic meds as of last dec. so all is well with my band

Love the new pic!