Calling Long Term Bansters

ccc0206 · March 18, 2008

I would like to hear from bandsters who have been banded OVER 5 YEARS?? OVER 10 YEARS?? I read posts from all of you wonderful people, but most of the band dates are very recent. I would like to know what complications?? what successes?? Are you happy with the results??? Are you sorry you did it years ago?? Did you have to be re-banded with a newer lap band model??

I am being banded on Friday March 20, and I am concerned with the LONG TERM consequences.

Thank you

cc

Edited March 18, 2008 by ccc0206

rharriet62 · March 18, 2008

I have not been banded as long as you mentioned, but I have been banded 3.5 years (4 years in Sept). The only problem I had was not the fault of the band or anyone. I was on vicodin for pain after getting my rotator cuff repaired last spring and the medication irritated my stomach and band. It was swollen and because I'm an idiot (!) I ignored it for months. Anyway, the solution was simple. I had a complete unfill, let my stomach rest 30 days, and started back on fills. I had 4 fills to get to where I am now (my last fill was about 10 days ago) and I feel great. I'm still losing at a good rate now. I was a slow loser and last year because I was so tight and swollen and miserable, I really didn't lose any weight at all. That is the only problem I've had. I love my band and would do it again with NO reservations!!! I've lost quite a bit of weight and am rejuvenated with this new fill level!

VegasGrace · March 18, 2008

I'm with you, I'd like to know as well.

Will everything just be fine now that I'm on maintenance? Will I have any issues that may come up out of the blue in a year or so? 10 years?

I'll keep an eye on this thread, too if you don't mind.

TheGh0st · March 18, 2008

I've only been banded since 2005 but with no complications so far. I'm curious as well.

mattintosh · March 18, 2008

Well I am a long term bandster I think. The only problem I ever had was remembering that I was banded. Like forgetting to take a small bite or chewing stuff like that. But I did get an unfill once cuz I had irritated my small tummy and she swelled up tight!! We call this self tightening. I could not swallow my own spit.

Other than that its been a real steady ride. Down around two hundred pounds!!

Edited March 24, 2008 by mattintosh

birdee · March 24, 2008

I have been banded since 7/2003. I would not trade it for anything in the world. I have not had any problems....I have had a pregnancy in between, which I know that I would not have been able to do without the band due to the extra weight. The only thing I had to deal with was stomach pain that was cured with a pepcid a day....

I am a slow looser.. I think mainly because I was under the impression the band would do all the work...now that I am 30 pounds away from goal....I am learning that I have to pitch in too!