Question:
I had VBG 12/98, lost 50 lbs. & gained 20 back + inches. Is there any hope for me?

   — Pat B. (posted on June 23, 2001)

June 23, 2001
Dear Pat, Based on my research, your story is all to comman. You can have your surgery revised. Consider the Duedoenal-Switch procedure (http://www.duodenalswitch.com/), as this procedure is much more effective at mainting weight loss long term. You can also have your procedure converted to RNY. Please note that studies seem to show higher rates of complications for revisional surgeries. In particular, gatric leakage seems to be much more comman in revision than in original surguries. Chris Hull
   — Chris H.

July 3, 2001
I have had something similar happen to me. I re-gained 30 pounds after being at my goal weight for 1 and 1/2 years. I have gained the 30 in one month. It is so scarry.
   — paintnmynails

July 22, 2001
I had my VBG 8-98. I lost 70 or so pounds and gained them ALL back. In addition to that I developed GERD and Barret's Esophogus- directly related and very serious. I recently (6-21) had a revision to a medial RNY. I have yet to meet a long term VBGer (2 years or more) who hasn't failed in one way or the other. This is not to scare you, just inform. There is hope though. Find a good program and work out like crazy. Monitor very closely how much you can and are able to eat and get your pouch checked regularly. Good luck
   — Paige D.