Lapband to Sleeve Conversion

[Caela88 13]

Hello Everyone!

Quick overview.... Started with my highest weight at 328, and was banded at 280 on March 30th 2010 in Mexico. I got all my fills and aftercare from Kaiser North Bay. Lowest weight was 190 in 2014 right after having my first baby. Now after my second baby I am up to 235. I am having problems with my band and finding a "sweet spot" for getting back on track. I am sure my pregnancies did a number on moving things around.

I just went to a bariatric doctor yesterday in South San Francisco (my normal one is on vacation, so I saw his colleague) He was unable to fill be due to not finding the port and saying I was too heavy. I was very frustrated since I have NEVER had a problem having a fill even at 260+.

My original doctor has told me before when I have asked for a revision that they do not take lapbands out unless it is an emergency situation. The doctor I saw yesterday told me he would take my lapband out anytime without question, but the revision was a different story. He said to even consider it I would have to get down to at least 210, and then we could go from there. I guess I am just wondering if anyone has gotten a revision from Kaiser South San Francisco or Richmond, voluntarily.

My doctor keeps saying scar tissue will hinder him from doing anything.... Thanks everyone

[hockeyfan7 249]

Well if I were you I'd get another opinion at a different practice. I was 275 when I had my band to sleeve revision done in the same surgery June 1st.

My sleeve is a little larger because of scar tissue at the esophagus. My surgeon wanted to minimize the risk of leaks so he only took out about 75% of the stomach.

But I have had zero problems and I feel fine. I have Anthem BCBS and all I had to do for the revision was go see a psychiatrist for one appointment and pass the pre-op surgery normal tests - EKG and bloodwork.

[Caela88 13]

Thanks for your reply. With two babies 2 and under, I can't really imagine two separate surgeries. Obviously if that was the only way then ok, but reading so many people having it all done at once would obviously be more ideal!

[DixieDarlin2 7]

Is BCBS insurance covering the revision from Lap band to Sleeve? and if so how?

[Caela88 13]

I have Kaiser insurance