lindasitton

Intially it worked great. However, when I gained weight it does not work as well. I have to sleep on a couch that lets me sleep half-way sitting up. I have lost 20 lbs since the lap band and it is getting better. I think in about 20 more lbs it will be effective again. It is not for everyone. Some people can not tolerate it. It has a top piece that hooks to the bottom piece and you screw the top piece out so that your jaw is extended. They say it doesn't change your bite but I don't think that is true for me. It hasn't been a major change but it is there. I think that when I lose enough weight the apnea will go away completely. Good LUck Linda

I have sleep apnea and I had the surgery on 12-17-2007. First, yes it sounds like you have sleep apnea. I would get your doctor to get you to a sleep lab. I don't know if your lap band surgeon will put your surgery off until you have been dx and have treatment but it will not because you could stop breathing during surgery. Your anesthesiologist will keep you breathing. Sleep apnea is no danger during the procedure. But sleep apnea is dangerous. One, it makes you much more likely to have a stroke, it can increase your blood pressure and your feel horrible. I fell asleep at a stop light once prior to treatment. Do not wait to get treatment. I used the C PAC ( breathing machine) and now I use an appliance that my dentist made. Both are expensive but your insurance will probably cover once the dx is made. I would doubt your lap band surgeon would handle this but I could be wrong. Hope this info helps!