Nanajoy

I’ve had a lap band for 11 yrs. I’ve begun to have problems ( band intolerance) and also have gained 30 of 100 pounds back. I’m not considered obese anymore but I am wanting the band out and feel that I need the sleeve so that I don’t gain it all back. I’m disabled and have Medicare. Does anyone have experience with this. Insurances seem to want you to gain it all back ( to have a higher bmi again ) before they will cover. They covered the band. Wouldn’t it make sense to cover the revision.

Looking for advice on band to sleeve with Medicare. I’ve had band for 11 yrs. Very complicated health history. Staying thinner /healthier is imperative for me. I’ve gained back 30 lbs. My bmi is 29.1. Last time I checked several yrs ago it was going to be a problem to get surgery to revise to sleeve because I hadn’t gained all of my weight back and now my bmi wasn’t high enough Anyone else have experience with needing to keep weight down but not being high enough with your bmi now to have revision surgery done ?

I have very similar stats to yours. Started at 232. Had lap band 7 years ago. Got down to 142 and now struggling with regain. I have had pain and nausea that I never used to have and also am considering sleeve suggested by my Bariatric group. Unfortunately bc my BMI is 27 insurance won’t pay for sleeve. Dr will do revision at no charge but will have to pay for hospital fees which no one can give me an answer to cost. I too never considered having what I considered a drastic surgery like the sleeve but yo continue gaining would be devastating for me. My health has been so much better since the band I don’t know what to do. I have an appt to discuss my options and also have a swallow X-ray done. Good luck to you. Hope we can figure this out!

Hi I am having a particularly challenging weekend. Dinner at friends tonight ( no idea what is being served - I tried to find out). Then Sunday is my birthday along with Mother’s Day. I am finally back on track after a 25 pound gain. I’m almost 6 yrs post op. I know if I take one bite of sugary or carbs things I will be under the wagon being dragged not just off the wagon. Help!

I can so relate ! I was banded 2012. I go to a weekly support group at my drs office that is very helpful. Although most have Sleeve now. There are a few banded people. I still get motivation, ideas and support. If you can find a group I highly recommend. This week someone talked about journaling their food. Haven’t done that in ages. I tried yesterday. It was eye opening. Hang in there. You are not alone !.

Thanks for sharing this Desdemona! I’m very encouraged now that my band will take me to my goal too even after a couple of years of struggling ( my own fault ). I went in a very strict diet also and I can relate to my band “ kicking in again”! Finally feeling hopeful again

You can do it!!! Good for you

Are you still happy with it? I am working hard to get back to goal after a year and a half off the wagon. And I mean fell off and got dragged behind the wagon! Lol! I saw my surgeon today after a fill 2 weeks ago. Lost 11 pounds following the post op diet again. Wasn’t easy but getting easier. Seems everyone is going to the Sleeve and it’s hard to find too many other lapbanders.

Are you able to have an occasional glass of wine with Sleeve after a while ? With the band it was not recommended but I was able to have a small glass once in a while without a problem

Same for you! You can do it! I keep visualizing summer, beaches , etc. it’s coming[emoji16]

Hi Jodie. I was banded in 2012. I lost 90 lbs. I’ve had several major back surgeries so I struggle a lot with exersize. I gained back 35 lbs but am working hard to get it off. I went back to surgeon. Got a small fill and started back on the very strict post op diet to try to jump start things. It was hard but it’s really working. It’s been s week and I’m down 6 lbs in one week. 2 protein shakes and one small healthy meal a day until goal. . No carbs or sugar. I feel better already. Good Luck!

I’m banded since 2012. I’m from NJ

Just want to say thanks to the folks here Whenever I’ve had a question or concern someone has always answered. Even though our experiences may vary I’m very encouraged and thankful for this site!

Has anyone dealt with other health issues after having the sleeve? I know I need neck and back surgery down the road. Also possible knee surgery. Wondering if pain meds will be an issue with a much smaller stomach etc

Will I likely need all of the same pre- testing ( endoscopy, ekg, psychiatric screening etc) before having my band out and sleeve done? My dr does them at the same time.

Is that even if the band is causing problems and that’s why they are taking out and doing sleeve?

Have had a lapband for 6 yrs. over the last year I have gained back about 35 lbs and also have developed a hiatal hernia that is causing minor issues as of now. My dr said I qualify for the sleeve bc of the hernia and numerous health issues . I’m 56 I’m looking to hear others experiences of. going from band to sleeve such as recovery, difficulty, regrets if any etc. I really want to be sure I’m doing the right thing. On a side note my family and friends think it an extreme thing to do bc I’m now only 35 overweight. But I know I’ll blink and I’ll be 50 over and then 60 and before I know it I’ll gain it all back it’s just a matter of time. I’m scared but tired of the pain and problems I’ve had from a lifetime struggle with obesity so I’m open just as I was with band. Any advice or sharing is very appreciated. tIa

Thankyou. Your post is very helpful That’s my concern too. I’m petrified to have 2/3 if my stomach cut off do I understand the fear part. Can you consider the sleeve now perhaps ?

Thanks! I’m also thinking the same thing And my dr can do it all st the same time too Good luck with the surgery! Would love to know how it goes

I can def relate. Are you able to go for counseling? Sometimes it just helps to talk. Or a support group. You are not alone. That’s for sure.