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I only weigh at doctor appointments. I lost 50 pounds with the band, and then drove myself crazy with weighing. I learned scales are a huge trigger for me. I tried for years to work through it. Then a few years ago (at age 38) I got rid of the scale. My weight stabilized at my lowest weight and stayed there for years. Best thing I ever did. This doesn't work for everyone, but it worked for me. Best two years of my life I'm 4 weeks out from a revision and wondering how I will do it now. I have lost more weight and people are commenting. I have one more surgeon follow up appointment next week. After that I think I won't weight until/ if I drop down to a size 12 or something. I was a 16 in jeans pre sleeve. OP, Good luck finding a out what works for you. You will lose weight! If you think a certain number will upset you, you can just give it more time. The longer you wait the happier you will be. Like others said, there is no wrong way to do it. Just finding what works best for you.

Hi Bea, By now you have had a successful surgery and are recovering nicely. Had my band- to-sleeve revision in TJ (Dr. Ortiz) 5/13/13 and was very pleased with the experience. I just returned from accompanying a friend who had her sleeve done at Mi Doctor--also very successful. I live in Houston and would love to have a band sister. Will send a private email on that. Keep us posted on your experience and don't forget to rest well. Lucille

I don't remember one person saying they regretted having the revision.

I'm doing a revision on Aug 18th. My band has been a struggle for 7 years, and I'm now 30 lbs from my highest weight. Can't wait for the sleeve.

Hi there, I just had an endoscope procedure to view my stomach. I had the Gastroplasty surgery 25 years ago and am seeking to have the bypass revision done. My Doctor just informed me that there is only about 2-3cm to work with and with best case he could do it leaving my stomach about the size of a marble as opposed to the size of an egg which is the normal size post surgery. Worst case scenario he gets in there and involved and can't get out without removing my stomach. My question is to anyone who has had this revision with the marble sized outcome how can one possibly eat enough to be ok let alone stay alive? He told me to think about it and talk amongst those of you that have done this, surely I am not the only one? Any help, advice would be greatly appreciated as I am at a total loss! Thanks

It can be done, as total gastrectomies are done for cancer and some other extreme gastric morbidities, and what is often done is they make a pouch out of part of the intestine where they join in the esophagus. There is apparently a substantial difference in recovery and adaptation time between a total gastrectomy and a partial gastrectomy, even with a marble sized pouch of stomach tissue - tying the esophagus directly into intestinal tissue seems to be a much bigger deal than taking the stomach tissue at the base of the esophagus and tying that into the intestine. As with any revision, particularly when dealing with potentially odd configurations, I would want to get a second opinion or two, as you aren't dealing with just a straightforward virgin bariatric procedure. A bariatric practice that is associated with a major cancer center would be a good place to start in finding good experience in such abnormal procedures. Good luck in working this out,

I had a revision to RNY because of severe acid reflux and erosion of the esophagus. Surgery date was 12/6/201lbs. Today 190lbs.. I was told by my doctor to expect to lose about 40% excess weight so time will tell. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-T377A using BariatricPal mobile app

As for my research, between the surgeons. My criteria was a full service hospital with an ICU and blood bank on premise. There's no debating that some surgeons operate out of little day clinics and others use full hospitals. I wanted to be in a hospital setting during my recovery with licensed nurses and doctors providing my care. I didn't want to be in a secondary location if a complication popped up, and have to be transported to another clinic or hospital for care. For sleeve surgeries, the complications including infections, leaks, perforated bowels, and general aftercare, were all factored into my decision process. So, I'm not sure why my opinion, or preference should be discredited just because I happen to have insurance coverage come through with my revision. Just because I didn't have to go the same venue as you or any other patients that went abroad, doesn't mean that my opinion doesn't matter. I have made the same exact statements about India, Turkey, Costa Rica, and other surgeons that are outside of the U.S. so I'm not exactly sure why there's such a twist in the mere fact that I have different standards than you do. You're happy with your experience, and so are many others. But, there are plenty out there that are not happy, and have been ran off for voicing their opinions, and experiences. So, if I put out what I found out during my research, and it saves one person from picking a surgeon strictly based on cost, then so be it. None of the information that I've shared has been incorrect or discredited by any patients. If you or any other patients can state that what I have shared is incorrect, please point me in the right direction. Because, I even had 2 coordinators verify what I had read about the facility and aftercare procedures of your surgeon. I considered a long list of surgeons, and because of my own personal standards, and health issues, I wasn't going to settle to save a mere 3grand to go somewhere that was not up to my standards. So, while I understand your point that I have zero personal experience with any of the surgeons, it's not difficult to realize that the information I've shared about Mexico surgeons is correct, and hasn't been verified even by your own accounts of your experience. It really has nothing to do with the cost. I had other US surgeons on my list for consideration, that cost more than Dr. Aceves, and would have traveled to one of them as well based on research, not just what my "internet friends" have to say about their experience. It's not difficult to form an opinion or share information when it's out there on a surgeon or facility. I realize paying more doesn't guarantee better, but the facts are that what I want, and need out of a surgeon and facility is NOT going to match what others want or need. Risks are risks, and someone else may have the same expectations and standards that I do. While I respect anyone's surgeons choice, I don't have to sit back and shoot rainbows and daisies up everyone's a$$ that wants information. It's been facts I've offered. I've never posted any leak stats, or complications for any surgeon. I've never bashed any surgeon. I've been there to listen to the ones that shared negative experiences and were chastised for it by other lovers of their surgeon. I Celebrate with all of the successes and try to be supportive of anyone struggling regardless of their surgeon choice. So I'm not really sure why it's turning into an all out war when it comes to the information I've shared.

Yes had a ban for like 6 years didn't loose much weight, decided to revise it to the sleeve and coudn't be happier

I had the band & was revised to the sleeve with a pre-sleeve weight of 155 at the time of my revision. I was having trouble with the band, which was documented, as it had partially slipped. While I had a lower weight, Kaiser CO did approve me. Mind you, my band was done through a different insurance company all together, so I thought for sure I wouldn't get approved. I was thankful as all I had to pay was the deductible ($1500). I would consider another surgeon that might support you. If you continue to 'have issues" & it's documented, you may be able to get the revision.

I've just had surgery to correct a slipped band and would really like to talk to anyone else that has been through this. My band was causing me to have reflux and drowning episodes during the night, resulting in ocnstant lung infections. I am from England living near London.

I know several people who have gone to him and was given his information from them, however - all this info is also on his website. Check it out: Alberto Aceves, MD-FACS Certified Bariatric Surgeon However, not to dissuade you from Dr. Pompa! I have done some research on her too and she's a very good, very accredited surgeon. You would do fine going with her as well. :svengo: There may even be a chance, albeit slight that I would switch and be revised by her.

Hi Dawn! Welcome! I found my way here through LBT, too. My husband is active duty Army and we also have Tricare Prime. Here's the deal: Tricare does not cover VSG. They don't plan to start covering it for at least another year, and unfortunately that healthcare overhaul might help other people out but it's shafting military, VA and medicare coverage. So, don't plan on the VSG being Tricare covered any time soon. However, several MTFs are doing the procedure. I'd contact your local MTF and see if they do the procedure. If they don't see if any of the facilities within driving distance do the surgery and see if you can get it done there instead. There are a handful of folks here that had the VSG done at a MTF, but that isn't the same as Tricare covering the procedure. It's done at the MTF free of charge but it doesn't get filed through Tricare, which is how they can cover the procedure. Usually there is a wait list for this type of thing, but to have it done for free it's probably worth the wait and hassle. I'm overseas so having it done at a MTF wasn't an option. Once we found out that our next assignment is also overseas and that it's remote, I opted to self-pay. I financed through USAA at a great rate and had my surgery done in Mexico by Dr. Aceves. I've had no troubles with Tricare covering my aftercare, acid reducer prescription, etc. I did have to draw a diagram of my new stomach for my PCM, however, as she'd never even heard of VSG! I almost got the band instead because it's covered, but I am SO glad I didn't. Honestly - read a little more on this board and search out the term "revision" and see what you find. It really is true that there are problems with the band. On LBT you'll find a lot of short timers thrilled with their band, but very few folks more than a year out still loving banded life. I'd never in a million years get a band, not after the stories I've read. I have no regrets about financing my surgery and choosing a better option. Good luck whatever you decide. If you have questions that you think I might be able to answer, feel free to PM me anytime. Tiffykins is also a military spouse and she's a fantastic resource. I highly recommend you search out her story here on this forum because she's also a band to sleeve revision. ~Cheri

Dr. Daryl Stewart also does revisions you can look the office up at weightlosssurgeon.com However, I have heard great things about Dr. Nicholson too.

So I am so me with a long story, so long story short... First band 1/2011 lost over 100 lbs Got deathly ill and band slipped , second band 8/2102 and it has sucked. I am not scheduled for revision surgery July 20th. Excited, scared, nervous are just a few words. I may have to have the procedure done in 2 surgeries and that stinks. I am over all this. My first band changed my life for the better and I want that again. My daughter is having sleeve surgery in less then 2 weeks so she's my focus right now, but all the emotions are making me crazy. Ok done rambling. Sent from my iPad using the BariatricPal App

Hi Beaglemamma, Thank you for your encouraging post! You are such an inspiration to all of us! My insurance company didn't pay for the lap band, but it paid 100% for the revision to sleeve...and I had no complications with the band other than poor weight loss. I think insurance companies like the sleeve and are paying for it more. Thanks again!!

I had the sleeve in 2015 and am now scheduled for revision due to reflux. My surgeon said they are doing revisions every day because the reflux after sleeve is such a big problem. He also said that they are now doing swallow tests before doing the sleeve. Damage in the esophagus leads to cell changes which can then cause cancer. I asked what the chances are of this not getting better and was told that there is no chance of 5he reflux getting better. The damage to the valve that goes into the stomach will not get better on its own. I've heard really good things about the RnY revision stopping the reflux immediately. I wish I'd have done this to begin with. Not sure about a procedure as new as the one above. Not enough info on long term side effects or success. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-T377A using BariatricPal mobile app

Do you mean where can you find the message posted regarding the luncheon at Kelsey's? If so it is on the Canadian Lapbander's site under messages and was posted yesterday. Donna VBG/87 Revised To Lapband/06 251/148/125 goal

I didn't get hiccups after surgery but I do know some people who did. I think this is normal and it should go away shortly. I didn't get a fill during surgery. My surgery didn't fill me until after 6 weeks post op. The first two attempts where unsuccessfully. To make a long story short, I was taken back to surgery 2 weeks ago because my ports keep moving while she tried to fill. I just got my first fill 2 weeks ago during the revision. I was filled 2.5 ccs and I can tell the difference. I believe once you receive your first fill then you will definitely be satisfied. Now, I do get the hiccups since the fill depending on the food that I get. Sometimes I believe the hiccups come when I get too fast. Usually I have to get the food back up in order for the hiccups to go away. I guess the food is stuck. Hope this helps.

Bit late, but yes, I had my sleeve go bypass revision 2 weeks ago. Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

because I am revising from band to gastric bypass my doctor challenged me to find the secret calories in my diet. I took this challenge and started logging everything I put in my mouth and I found secret calories in a lot of food and portions. I lost 10 lbs during this last month. eating the same healthy food but weighing and logging.

Hello everyone. Today marks my 6 month Post-op Band to RNY Revision. It's been an interesting ride. March 21st, I arrived for my surgery at 0600. Was taken back to prep at 0630 and was in surgery before 0730. My surgery was a tough one, the band was fully encapsulated in scar tissue and took almost 4 times longer to remove than it should have, the surgery itself lasted much longer than expected. But, thankfully my super awesome surgeon Dr. Beth Ryder stuck with it and completed the full revision rather than only removing the band. I remember it being after 3pm when I made it to the recovery room. Recovery, for me, was super easy. I was a little weak/woozy for my first walk around recovery. But once I got to my room for the rest of my 3 day 2 night stay, things were just super easy. I would disconnect and reconnect myself from pretty much everything to do my walks. I didn't need any extra nausea meds or pain meds. I did have an on demand morphine drip if needed. I'd hit that before I had to do any big moves, or to help me sleep. But that's really it. They took that away early on my last day, it was no longer needed. At home, things continued to be easy, I was already familiar with the log roll method of getting in and out of bed from my lapband surgery, so I had zero issues with that. I took my time with things, followed my instructions and made sure to hit all my requirements. The weight loss has been both amazing, and frustrating. I weigh myself every day. I know it's not advised, but I like to track it daily if possible. I have a scale that does body fat % as well and this has helped quell some of the frustration, those stalls, I'd see my body fat % dropping, so I knew that even if my weight wasn't moving, that I was still on track. It helped a bit, but still, it was / is, frustrating. I feel fantastic. I've had issues with not recognizing myself in mirrors which is a trip. I've almost broke down in tears because I could shop at normal stores, I bought things right off the rack without trying them on and they fit exactly as I expected. I'm much more active, have less issues with lots of things. I'm very happy overall. There have been some odd "side effects". I have thoracic spinal arthritis. Guess I've had it for a while, but because I was fat, the visceral fat that covers our bones, tendons, joints, muscles, etc, was insulating the nerves from the arthritis. So, I drop a ton of weight... and now I can feel it. Also, with the visceral fat loss, tendons and other connective areas had gotten a little, slack/loose/painful. But that wasn't anything some time in the gym couldn't fix. Working out really REALLY helped tighten up areas that were excessively loose, internally. Excess skin isn't super bad either. Which is awesome seeing as I'm coming from a max of 370. Yes I've got a bunch of odd "crinkly" skin, but it's not near as bad as I had expected. I got lucky and didn't have to deal with hair loss either. Thankful for that. I'm hairier now it seems. I guess with reducing the "stretch" my skin had to do in order to accommodate me being overweight caused the follicles to become spaced out more. So I'm not "hairier" exactly, but my follicles are closer together making for the appearance of being hairier. I've had some CRAZY emotional swings. Fat stores estrogen, So as you lose weight, expect there to be hormonal imbalances. Make sure whomever your support is, knows this as well, so when things get heated or super emotional, they'll understand that you are dealing with weight loss related hormonal changes. I'm able to eat pretty much anything I want now. Which is a double edged sword. I can eat cake and cookies and cupcakes without any real issue. But, I can eat cake, cookies, cupcakes without any issue... so, will power is still needed. I got lucky and my hunger sensation is still very low. I don't get a "full" feeling exactly, but I get to a point where I just don't want to eat anything else. I still take my time and I don't drink within 30 mins of eating. I'm currently doing a light Intermittent Fasting (IF), I'm eating between the hours of 8am and 6pm and that's pretty much it. The science behind this process is pretty sound and makes TONS of logical sense. March 21st, I weighed in at 294.4. Today, I weighed in at 224.1, 70.3 lbs dropped since surgery, 145.9 lbs since my heaviest. Thank you to all for your help and support. I hope to continue hanging around providing any help I can to those walking the same path. To all: Learn to love yourself. Learn to forgive yourself. Stay strong, everything is only temporary.

Gass X strips work really well. I'm having the same issue and I walk walk walk and it is still gassy and bloated. It will pass. Revision done on May 6th, 2013

I had a revision due to the GERD and heartburn, in the 9 months leading up to it, my surgeon started looking at some data and why there were so many revisions. His findings were that unlike priori where GERD and heartburn were not thought to be an issue passed down is now looking like it is. And due to that he has added new screening questions about more familial conditions that can come into play after the sleeve surgery if that is what what was being considered. And if there is even the slightest hint that it could be there he is opting for bypass.

For me, the struggles early out are so worth the long-term. I had a complicated recovery due to being a revision, but others struggle as well. The one thing you can't focus on is the "bad". All the stuff you listed is temporary. Really, it doesn't last forever. Drinking and eating become easier with each passing week, hair grows back, nausea doesn't happen to everyone, and I was never malnourished. Seeing my family live life without me because I was too fat do fun stuff, and realizing I was going to end up in a pine box way too soon if I didn't do something about my weight was way scarier! ! !