The end of the Band??

The effect my band had on my esophagus is just what happens to stomachs.  Both organs are made up of the same musculature, just different linings.

I loved my band and it did everything I hoped it would. Unfortunately, I was very sensitive to fills and when it began to give me trouble I was getting stuck on soft foods with no fill. When having it unfilled for 8 weeks didn't resolve the problem it had to come out. I did revise to VSG and have been ok with it. I had a rough time initially because having the band removed created such swelling inside that my UGI looked like I had a complete obstruction. My surgeon said that any weight loss surgery is much easier on a virgin stomach. He also tells me that his practice is removing many more bands than placing them.

If I had known that even with keeping a small amount of fluid in my band and trying to follow the rules, I would have to have a second surgery I probably would not have chosen it. Just from a financial perspective it  doesn't make sense. It seems that some have excellent result long term I just wasn't one of them.

Remember, any wls is only a tool. Each has it's positive characteristics and it's negative. For the band it seems that since I got mine in 2010 the complications have exploded. I am sorry for that because I really thought it was the best option since I had the same thoughts as you.

BTW, I am not restricted to tylenol alone. I don't frequently take NSAIDS but if I need it I take it.

WLS was the best thing I have ever done for myself and still do not regret getting my band. If I had known what we know now I might have chosen another option but everyone has to choose what works for them.

Good luck