Autoimmune diseases

lildarlin · November 21, 2005

Anyone here know how I can find out about the correlation between autoimmune diseases and the band? I'm curious because I'm sure I read somewhere that the band may not be good for someone with autoimmune disease(s).

I have autoimmune thyroiditis, my immune system is attacking my thyroid and trying to destroy it. I'm seeing a specialist and getting my levels in the right range. I'm wondering though, would having the band placed make my immune system attack IT?

Since it is a foreign object in my body, I wonder if that would happen. I don't know how to find out. I haven't consulted with a physician yet about the band, still doing my research.

If anyone can help....Thanks!

NJChick · November 21, 2005

Hello !!

I would call a surgeon to see if they would even perform the surgery. If they don't know then I wouldn't know what to tell you except talk to the makers of the band.

paula · November 21, 2005

Leatha and Delarla have bands and both have autoimmune diseases. Both are very educated about this match.

Neither one are on this board very often, so you may want to send them a PM and see what they have to say.

And any experienced surgeon should give you a very honest opinion of this as well.

Good luck!

lildarlin · November 21, 2005

Thank you! I will see what I can find out.

DeLarla · November 21, 2005

Awe, now I feel bad for not being here. Sorry I haven't been around, but here I am.

Certain surgeons will not place a band if you have a "certain kind" of "AI" (auto immune disease.) I have sarcoidosis, and my band is fine. I can't remember exactly the reason behind not allowing a band with AI, but I recall that certain people with AI had problems with breast implants, which is why surgeons wouldn't place other types of implants.

However, ask carefully because it's only a certain type of AI, which maybe isn't you. Even so, from what I know, there's nothing really documented about the band and problems with AI, it's just a safety measure based on what occured with breast implants.

Did I make any sense at all?

lildarlin · November 21, 2005

That's reassuring - Thank you! I'll pursue this a bit further. Possibly get in to see a surgeon. So much to think about! Cross fingers that with the thyroid issue, it could be a go!

leatha_g · November 21, 2005

I have systemic Lupus and have had no problems whatsoever. I think in the beginning, there was a liability concern due to 'silicone' implants, however, the band is made from a totally differenty type of silicone that is not known to leak. It is solid.