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I had no idea that esophageal problems were common. I just had an upper GI and discovered that the band has already caused some problems in the way my esophagus works. Now, the sleeve isn't looking so good.
Thanks so much for your reply.
I also concur, revise from band to RNY instead of VSG.
Unfortunately, you may end up having to self-pay for revision surgery as insurance may not cover it, which sucks. If that turns out to be the case then you may want to consider gastric bypass surgery in Mexico. Many OHers have had great results with band-to-RNY surgery at Mexicali Bariatric Center.
Tate,
What state do you live in? I had bypass surgery done in 2004, Roux-en-y and I weighed 453lbs. Then between 2004-2007, I got down to 224lbs. In 2011 I started gaining weight, little by little until in 2015 I was 354 again. I then almost died from a perforated bowel. After surgery, I had endoscopy done and Dr. Said my gastric bypass was no longer intact, due to staple line failure. He said I couldn't get it repaired and couldn't have bypass done again. Then, six months ago, I saw online about gastric fistula repairs. Not knowing my exact problem (my Dr was a liar), I had my PSP refer me to Dartmouth Hitch**** clinic in NH. Well, all said, I had gastric fistula repaired endoscopically last week, 8/2/2018. Surgery took 1hr 1/2 and I am repaired and ready to lose pounds again and forever. Same day surgery, no pain, Tate get it done. You deserve the chance. You earned it after first surgery and all the upsetnes wet gained back causes. Let me know if you have a ? or need anything else.
Good luck,
Drew
I had the band for years and then had it revised to sleeve. This week had revised to bypass.. The Dr said most, not all ppl that have sleeve after band have poor results because your esophagus is compromised and horrible reflux
My doctor wanted me to get the band removed asap after discovering it had slipped even though I wasn't having any problems. There is a healing time period of at least 3 months before he would do a revision. My doctor will only do a VSG for me because I don't have a high BMI like I did originally when I started this venture. He won't do lapbands anymore. Funny thing is my insurance will pay for a new lapband but not a sleeve.
For your health and safety, get the band removed. You will have time to make your decision while you are healing.
My experience is your insurance will cover the band removal but not a revision. Not all insurance companies are the same so hopefully you will win the battle. My doctors fought for me but to no avail so I am going to self pay for a VSG.
