So..my Lap Band surgeon is talking about the Sleeve and options for me...

I feel extremely blessed to no longer have a big stomach - that was my great burden in life! 

LOL! That reminds me of a story (doesn't everything?).

Someone here on the band forum stated that VSG was too drastic because most of the stomach is removed forever. A sleevester responded by saying she didn't think her big stomach ever did her any favors because all it did was beg to be filled with food (or words to that effect)!

LOL! I've been saying for years that the majority of my stomach was in a landfill somewhere, where it will never trouble me again. (*grin*)

Dumping with a VSG is rare, but so is dumping with no wls, but still possible.  Now GERD is a more common side effect with the sleeve but generally well controlled with a PPI.  I am a very happy sleever more than 3 years post op, and would be more concerned with GERD than dumping.  You should consider doing a poll or something on the VSG board as I believe you have overrated the chance of dumping.

Best wishes.

I had my hiatal hernia repaired in July and am thrilled thus far with my results. I have an AP standard 10cc band, so my Dr was able to unclasp my band, repair the hernia, and reposition my band. Miraculously my insurance covered it even though I have a bariatric opt-out clause.

It has been night and day difference for me restriction wise. I am still learning how to eat with my "new" band since it feels nothing like the first 4.5 years did. I am happy that I decided to repair my hernia and would do it again in a heartbeat.

However, VSG was not an option for me. If it was, I probably would have revised over to VSG. Main reason $$. I am self pay and my expenses have been large with the lapband. The aftercare, while I like the accountability with my Dr, can get expensive (time off work, cost of fills etc). Also, I do not believe that the band is a permanent solution. I am working it for everything I have right now, but I am realistic that someday I will most likely have to have it removed.

Best of luck with your decision!