Will Removal Help?

[Jamie05 0]

Hello All:

I had my band put in last April and have lost 127 pounds. I am very happy with my weight loss at this point and feel like I have learned the tools to do it alone.

After getting banded I have horrible heartburn and acid reflux. I was wondering if anyone could tell me if having the band removed would help or cure the problem. It is very hurtful and i've tried every medacine OTC and prescribed by doctors. It seems they work for a month but then stop.

So my questions:

Would removal help?

Has anyone had their band removed and still been successful after removal?

Thank you in advance any help is appreciated!!

Edited September 16, 2010 by Jamie05

[elcee 3,342]

Most people that have their bands removed regain at least some, many all of their weight.

Is it possible that your band is too tight? Maybe just having a little fill out will help.Or maybe you could try having your band completely unfilled for a while. That way you will be able to see if it makes a difference and if you are able to maintain the weight loss but it will still be there if you decide you do in fact need it.

Many people in your situation seem to have converted to other forms of WLS such as a sleeve. But just be aware that sleeves themselves do seem to have problems including reflux.

[Jamie05 0]

elcee,

thank you for your reply. the last time i had a fill was in june of last year. so its been a very long time. I would think that the fill would be gone by now...? im not sure. I lost my medical insurance for a while and wasnt able to see a doctor until now. Im making an appt for next week. Im just confused on what to do. The last thing i want to do is gain the weight back! but being in pain all the time is no fun either : (

[elcee 3,342]

Unless you have a leak the fill should still be there. Small amounts can dissapate over time but most of it stays there.

It does sound as though you have not been given proper info on how the band works, the importance of aftercare etc.

I am glad that you are going to see your Dr. The sooner the better.

Losing insurance is a major problem but sometimes we have to realise that our health is really important and find the money somewhere. A big part of the band process is the continued aftercare.

Have to run - got an appointment at my son's school. if i can be of any more help please feel free to PM etc.

[fire girl 1]

I would definitely start with removing some fill. I know this is going to sound strange but once I got to 5cc, good restriction, each time I lost 20 pounds I had to have fill removed. I would be so tight I couldn't keep food down. The band affects everyones body in a different way.....