VSG vs. Band?

I know this question must have been asked many times before and I did some research online but am still sooo confused.

The good news is that my insurance approved my lapband today! So, I was ecstatic with the news until I saw this information and my family doctor (not my bariatric doctor) asked me why am I not considering VSG instead of the band. I did enough research to understand the pros and cons... but I have a very hard time making this decision.

I know that ultimately it’s my decision what procedure to pick but any words of wisdom, reassurance, or advice are greatly appreciated.  

 

"with 3-year follow-up reported, 88% of the 299 patients had one or more adverse events, ranging from mild, moderate, to severe. Nausea and vomiting (51%), gastroesophageal reflux (regurgitation) (34%), band slippage/pouch dilatation (24%) and stoma obstruction (stomach-band outlet blockage) (14%) were the most common post-operative complications. In the study, 25% of the patients had their gastric banding systems removed, two-thirds of which were following adverse events. Esophageal dilatation or dysmotility (poor esophageal function****urred in 11% of patients, the long-term effects of which are currently unknown."

A third of patients had undergone reoperation after five years, increasing to 53% at 10 years. The incidence of band removal increased from 0.5% at one year to 11% at five years and 35% at 10 years. Conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass accounted for half of all reoperations, according to one AMSBS report

 

I had a VSG or (Gastric Sleeve Resection) in July of 2007. I love my sleeve. It requires no maintenence, and I can eat the same amount of food as I could early out of surgery. Just a few bites of dense protein and I'm FULL. Another good thing, is that the sleeve doesn't stretch. I had acid reflux for probably 6-8mo after surgery and was on prescription meds for that, but it went away. I know quite a few people that went from failed lapband to sleeve and are very happy. You should visit the VSG board and talk to some of them. Very nice people over there.

I know that everyone has to make their own decision.  But honestly, I have never met anyone that was happy and achieved long lasting good results with the lap-band.  My thing with the lap band is - how long can a foreign object stay in the body?  Would it ever have to be replaced?  I had the VSG and have nothing but praise for it.  Again, it was the right decision for me.  It is not fool proof, none of them are!! You have to mentally be prepared.  I still can't eat much at a time but if your done put the food away!  Grazing can be easy, a bite here and there....it all adds up.  But I am 2 1/2 years out and doing good.  i am fighting with 8-9 pounds but that's not from  food its liquor and I know it.  Damn liquid calories!! LOL  Best of luck to you...this is the best thing I've ever done for myself.

Emily