Lap-Band to gastric sleeve

[Lelina]

I had a surgery to take out my LapBand due to excessive acid reflux, damaged esophagus, and a pouch that formed above the Band in January 2020. How long do I have to wait for my esophagus to heal and pouch to disappear so I can have gastric sleeve?

[sraebaer]

Good question for your surgeon!

[Lelina]

thanks for your answer, I think you are right!

[Katrina]

Also, be very very careful about the decision to have a sleeve. These things are notorious for causing acid reflux. Some get over it, some don't. I'm in the didnt get over it category, and debating converting to bypass. This reflux sucks!

[Lelina]

Thank you so much Katrina for answering. I am really scared of acid reflux with the sleeve. What do people say about it who have a sleeve, how did they overcome it?

[sraebaer]

Some here have had to convert from sleeve to bypass because of reflux. Talk to your doctor, maybe the bypass would be the better choice.

[Lelina]

Some here have had to convert from sleeve to bypass because of reflux. Talk to your doctor, maybe the bypass would be the better choice.

I am afraid of by pass because of malabsorption. I take anti depressants and I am afraid I wouldn't absorb them properly
Thanks so much for answering

[sraebaer]

If you scroll down under 'Latest Activity" Dr. Alvarez has a video posted about converting from lap band to sleeve dated 2/19/2020.

[Lelina]

Yes, I saw it, I was just wondering what are some personal experiences about conversion

[sraebaer]

Yes, I saw it, I was just wondering what are some personal experiences about conversion

Hope you get some answers. No personal experience here.

[Lelina]

Are you happy with the sleeve? What is it like? How is acid reflux, is that a problem?

[kenson]

Are you happy with the sleeve? What is it like? How is acid reflux, is that a problem?

I am ecstatic with my sleeve. Acid reflux has not been a problem for me, but I know that some do have a problem. All of us have had such different experiences, its just hard to give you one general answer. You will find that not all bariatric surgeons are alike. We have all had very different after care instructions.

[Lelina]

Thank you so much for your answer. How was your after care, you must be doing something right since you are so happy with it

[sraebaer]

Are you happy with the sleeve? What is it like? How is acid reflux, is that a problem?

I never had reflux issues, but some people do. I am over-the-moon thrilled with my sleeve! It's been so long people don't even remember the fat me.