Bandarella

I came across this site long after my Lapband surgery looking for some support with complications. I belong to a Facebook group for those dealing with regain and revision. I joined that group when my band complications made it pretty clear I would be losing my tool. Other online forums aren't as active as this one, so I joined.

I'm a little discouraged, since the banders here seem to be closed minded about hearing about late complications of banding. I get why, since I was a very active proponent of banding, had great success and shot down anyone who dared say that bands = long term trouble.

One thing I've noticed in researching my complications is that male bansters don't seem to have as many serious complications. I have a family member who is doing well almost 5 years post op and he hasn't had one problem.

He is, however sympathetic to my situation and has done a but of research on complications and acknowledges that they do happen much more frequently than stated in the manufacturer's disclosure.

There is a strong mindset within this community that following a set of rules for eating and drinking will ensure that one will suffer no serious complications. The problem with this is that there isn't just one set of "rules", every surgeon has their own technique, surgical finesse, different staff and rules for living with a band. Every patient is unique too. We come with our own special set of circumstances, lifestyle, unique physiology and baggage. There are just too many variable factors involved to say that we will be successful by following our doctors rules.

I think that anyone who has a band and is successful AND complication free is very, very fortunate. I am truly happy for them. I know what losing 75% or more of excess weight can mean, I know the thrill of appetite suppression! being satisfied with 1/4 cup of food, fitting into smaller, more stylish clothes means. I know about having less joint pain, fitting in chairs, airplane seats and amusement park rides.

I also know the pain, fear and anxiety of serious complications. My doctors were completely perplexed by my case. Fortunately for me, a very qualified esophageal specialist practices near me and knew what was up. He's treated and consulted on many cases like mine and is currently researching the effect of Lapband on the esophagus.

Unfortunately, I have severe damage to my stomach, esophagus and it seems, to my heart that I cannot revise.

I'm working hard to maintain WL and regain my health. I'm also encouraging everyone considering WLS to fully investigate and research possible complications. It is my mission to warn about complications that happen much more frequently and are much more serious than is admitted within this community. I won't cave in to those who call me silly, a fear mongering bully, exaggerator, or that I'm trying to scare newbies away. I'm none of that. I've seen both sides of this situation. I hope you never do.