Just posing a question, not looking for an argument

[Fitgirl2be 4]

I have been researching the sleeve surgery for over a year. I had made my decision to have the sleeve and then I started reading "deeper" research into the sleeve. The one thing that concerns me is that some in the medical community are stating there is not enough long term data on the sleeve and for what they do have, there are a large number that require a revision to a gastric bypass. Has anyone else heard or read this?

I'm just afraid of having 85% of my stomach taken out and then years later requiring the gastric bypass which is what I don't want. Then, if there are complications after that, then what? I read where one woman had to have her entire stomach removed. Granted I'm sure that doesn't happen very often, but still...hmmmm. I just don't know. I thought I was all set, but now I guess I have more thinking to do. Just looking for thoughts from others. Thanks!

[toler48 120]

I did a lot of reading and research on band, bypass and sleeve, before I made my decision, as all of us do. It's not something to jump into.

Like most of the posts I've read here, I did not want basically an " appliance" put into my body and then have to be poked with a needle once a month (HATE needles). I also didn't like the idea of "re-routing" my insides (shudder).

So, I chose the sleeve. I have been very lucky in that I've not had any of the problems with it that I read about. No dumping or pain. I can actually even drink (sip) while I'm eating.

I learned early on not to eat too fast or too much.

All in all, the sleeve is the best decision I've ever made.

[Heather I 500]

My mom had the band and chose it because it had the shortest recovery time after surgery and couldn't afford to be out of work up to a month with gastric bypass (sleeve wasn't out at the time, I don't think.)

FWIW, she lost weight with it but has regained almost all of it and has tons of vomiting issues, but I honestly think that's more due to her refusal to make any lifestyle changes/healthy food choices. I don't think the band failed her, I think she was also looking for a quick, magic bullet. It was all sunshine and roses the first year when she physically COULDN'T eat anything, but then, when they adjusted it so she could maintain, she went nuts and hasn't looked back.

[VSGAnn2014 12,992]

It's weird to hear the sleeve referred to as a "fad." I'm not sure that word means what you think it means.

[Pinkgirl1234 761]

This is a big question of "WHY" to me as well.The lapband is causing damage and the amount of revisions to sleeve or bypass is astounding.The lapband has caused me alot of organ injury.My esophagus is messed up and so is my teeth from vomiting .Its amazing the years I put up with the band suffering and trying to make it work....if there ever becomes a civil class action lawsuit I am in...

[CocteauJ 2]

I was banded 8 years ago, it was fine for five years ..then I spent the last 3 years in absolute misery. Pain, vomiting, Gerd. I had it out in June and just this month I was sleeved. Best decision ever! I can't believe the lap band is even being offered anymore as it's 50/50 with problems and removal. So glad it's gone!

[Pinkgirl1234 761]

My doctor no longer performs lapband surgery.

[MsAshley0307 19]

I have too read there's not any long term data, but it can be concluded on your own. They remove a large portion of your stomach. This gives the individual an opportunity at a fresh and jumpstart. It give an opportunity to reset the body while producing drastic results in the beginning. If you choose to avoid being serious with lifestyle changes you will have to start over and go to the last resort of bypass. If you feel that strongly long term results, effects, and possible revision its up to you to make the changes stick and be successful.

[CowgirlJane 14,259]

What percentage is the "large number " requiring revision. To bypass?

Frankly, although it is much safer now, ANY WLS should scare the crap out of you. It's just that the alternative (over 300 and gaining, lifetime of trying to control my weight) was like 100 percent chance of early death with a side trip through disability. Post sleeve, maintaining a 150# plus weight loss for 3 years now I have a chance at a much better life.

I was in turmoil for a solid year over revising from the failed band because of all these concerns. Bypass is a good procedure too, but has its own set of risks and issues.

I think the soul searching I did during that time had contributed to my success with the sleeve. Lots to say about that, but it boils down to - do I choose living to eat, or eating to live. I choose living a full life, for as long as I am blessed with that chance.

I have been researching the sleeve surgery for over a year. I had made my decision to have the sleeve and then I started reading "deeper" research into the sleeve. The one thing that concerns me is that some in the medical community are stating there is not enough long term data on the sleeve and for what they do have, there are a large number that require a revision to a gastric bypass. Has anyone else heard or read this?

I'm just afraid of having 85% of my stomach taken out and then years later requiring the gastric bypass which is what I don't want. Then, if there are complications after that, then what? I read where one woman had to have her entire stomach removed. Granted I'm sure that doesn't happen very often, but still...hmmmm. I just don't know. I thought I was all set, but now I guess I have more thinking to do. Just looking for thoughts from others. Thanks!