Anyone Banded Over 5+ Years? or Replacement?

I had Lapband surgery in 2004, so I've had my band for 7+ years now.  Is there anyone else out there with the "old style" band or who's been banded for 5+ years?  I'm started to have complications such as reflux, very sensitive to fills, not finding the sweetspot, one month I can tolerate 1.66cc and the next go around I can't even tolerate 1.00cc.  I met with the physician yesterday and he suggested a replacement, there is definately a difference between the bands today and the one I have.  Has anyone else had the same problem, any suggestions?  I went into surgery at 260 and normally maintain at 170, but with the complications I'm back up to 200.  I'm good with the band, wouldn't want anything else, just more concerned about old vs. new, replacements complications, etc. etc. Thanks for your support and I hope everyone else is doing well!!

 I got my "old" 4cc band in 2003. Had it upgraded to a new, larger one in 2008 when my surgeon went in to fix a big hiatal hernia I had developed. It was at his suggestion that I changed: he said the newer ones are "better tolerated" that the old. I'm okay with the new one, but I've had a harder time finding my sweet spot than I did with the old one.

Thanks for the helpful info, kinda sounds like the route I'm going to go.  I guess I'm just dreading another surgery.  Overall are you happy with your band? By the way, love the pics of your tattoos!

 I'm very happy with my band. I don't think I would be comfortable with any other of the current procedures.

I'm over 5 1/2 years out with my old 4cc band. So far so good. There are several on the Band Grads board who have had theirs longer. I am told, but don't know first hand that the newer bands are easier to fill as there is more room for manoeuvre in the amount of saline.

Kate

I have had my 5 years and have had no problem with my band. I haven't ask my doctor about the new band and he has not said anything about it. I do know from my little visit to him Thursday that if you do not eat enough you will gain weight. I also know that this kind sweet doctor can be stright to the point if he has to be. so I can't help you there I did post some of his suggestion on some band rules and some rules of his they might help you. But keep in mind they are from his office. and all doctors are different but since Thursday eating they way he has told me to I have lost three pounds. I have had no problems with adjustments. But I still love my doctor and when I lose down to where I was I am going to send him a thank you card for the swift kick in the butt.

Do you have the link to the Band Grads Board?  I can't seem to find it.  Thanks....probably right in front of my nose.  LOL  Thank you for the help!

http://www.obesityhelp.com/group/bandgrads

Well I'm 4 years out and have the same problems you do, to the point I finally got mine emptied to get rid of the reflux. I'm just waiting until I can get on medicare and hopefully by then I can get a sleeve and get rid of this horrid thing!