Question:
Will they do the Lap Band procedure if I have acid reflux?

I'm going in for a barium swallow today (for my required pre-op tests for the Lap Band) to check for acid reflux and a hernia. I'm sure I don't have a hernia but I think it's quite likely that I have acid reflux. Will they still do the Lap Band surgery on me if I have acid reflux? Thanks!!    — PamG (posted on July 30, 2007)

July 30, 2007
I had terrible reflux before my Banding, and it must not have been a problem, since my surgery went off without a hitch. I have not had one single episode in the 4+ years since. Good luck!
   — Jeanie

July 30, 2007
I originally wanted the Band, but after seeing 2 surgeons they said no because of my reflux. I have opted for the Roux En Y and have a surgery date of Aug 7th. Perhaps it is the surgeon, or perhaps the extint of the reflux. Good Luck.
   — bderuiter

July 30, 2007
Maybe it is the RnY, not lapband, but one of the reasons they do that surgery is because you have acid reflux. The surgery will most likely relieve the acid reflux. Maybe the RnY is the way to go?
   — KRWaters

July 30, 2007
I had terrible acid reflux for years and was on daily medication for it. Since I was banded I haven't had any reflux at all and no more meds. It's great! Debbie Donaldson
   — DebbieNB

July 30, 2007
Hi! I had Rny surgery on March 7th of this year and have to date lost 108 pounds but yes I did have acid reflux real bad but have been on Nexium for years. After my surgery I had some problems but my surgeon has left me on Nexium and it has helped me out alot. I am now able to eat some foods that I couldn't eat before surgery and then there are some things I loved and don't now. You will find out what works best for you and remember it's one day at a time. I thank God for each day I had the wls and hope all goes well for you.
   — TrevaDeck150

July 30, 2007
I also had awful reflux prior to my banding. This did not stop them from going ahead with the procedure. I also have not had a single episode of reflux SINCE my banding, and believe the band helps to keep the acid down. Since I'm a vocal music teacher another added benefit, is that now that my reflux is gone, I almost never have voice problems anymore. I used to lose my voice all the time! I LOVE my band!
   — Debra R.

July 30, 2007
I had reflux before surgery in April. I have had none since the surgery.
   — Donna O.

July 30, 2007
Hi Pam, It depends on the cause of the acid reflux and what shape your esophagus is in. Acid reflux in and of itself is not a contra-indication to the band. Some of the causes of acid reflux are though. After your swallow test, the surgeon will be able to tell you if you are a good candidate for the band. Good luck! Vicki
   — VickiStevens