Hi,
I had my Band for 8 years. The first 6 were fine. I lost most of my weight the first 2 years. I got into bad habits of eating soft foods and Soup because I got kinda lazy about preparing the right meals. My weight stayed off. Then about 2 years ago, I had (over a 24 month period) 3 episodes of esphagitis, GERD, heartburn, waking up in the middle of the night choking on stomach fluids (acidic!) Had an esophagram in April: showed pouch dilation and significant reflux.
Had my band removed 4 days ago.
I'm still in pain, but I know that the right decision was made. I look forward to eating normally again; even the healthy stuff like raw carrots and salad. I haven't had a soda in 8 years but I really don't care if I ever have one again. I just like the idea of not having to sleep sitting up and being able to eat normally again.
My advice, which I don't give lightly is: do what is right for your body. Don't suffer silently. At least have the conversation with the surgeon. You will feel better by researching and talking to people who are knowledgeable in the field.
take care,
Jan
