joanieA

Hi, my name is J, and Im new to OH. Hping to find some support and experiences similar to mine, as I make another weight loss surgery decision. Here is my story in a nutshell:
I got my band in 2006, and did quite well with it, initially. I lost about 30 pounds within six months or so, then plateaued for about 2 years. I stopped going for fills when my insurance company changed and new company refused to cover fills. I sort of ignored the band for about 4 years, but stayed within five pounds or so of lowest weight.
Then about 6 months ago I started having really bad heartburn at night, and occasionally was unable to even drink water, but it woud pass pretty quickly. I started being able to eat way too much as well. Then, I had a cat scan done for suspected pneumonia. The results incidentally showed that my band had 'repositioned".
I finally went to a new doctor, recommended by a doctor friend. He immediately took out all the fluid from my band, and has now scheduled surgery to either remove or reposition the band.
Im not sure what to expect now. Almost all the research Ive done has suggested than rebanding is rarely successful. I was initially very successful with my band, and followed the guidelines. I ignored it for several years and still maintained most of the loss. Since the band has been empties, I've put on almost 15 pounds in less than 2 months! I am not a candidate for the sleeve, as my BMI is 31. Im uncomfortable with the irreversibility of that option as well.
Its my wish to reband, with my doctor's support and approval. Has anyone had similar problems and gone on to success with their second band? My surgery is in 10 days. I will either have the band repositioned or removed. Im not feeling too optimistic about removal and any success with keeping the weight off.
Im pretty sure I will keep my band, but would like to hear from someone who has had similar circumstances, and has gone on to resume weight loss and/or maintenance