Well I didn't even know I had acid reflux at first and I don't know how long I had it. When they did all the tests before scheduling a surgery date, that is when I found out I had it. I never had heartburn or anything to let me know I had it but the barium swallow showed that I did. I was fine after surgery I didn't take any PPI's like I was instructed to do. About 2 weeks after, I started feeling very bad burning in my throat so I started taking Prevacid. I only took it every now and then (only when the burning got unbearable) because I honestly hate taking medicine. After months and months of "off and on" burning I decided to go see the Gastroenterologist. That is when I found out I had the ulcers. I would probably ask the doctor to schedule and endoscopy before surgery just in case...who knows, I could have had problems existing in my throat before surgery and didn't know it. But thanks for the good vibes..much appreciated