How much can I have added to my gastric band in one fill appointment?

Question

I had a gastric band fitted 3years ago, I had excellent restriction with 6.5mls in my band. I want to try for a baby next year and on the advice of my gp had 2.5ml removed, but having done some more research (and struggled with the return to no restriction) I want to get 2ml added back. Can I have this done in a single fill, or will I have to have multiple smaller fills? Thanks for any advice!

Wiljon W. Beltre, MD · Answer

I normally do not bring you back to 6.5ml the first fill.  It will take two to three fills max to bring you back to 6.5ml with out any issues.  If 2.5ml is placed into the band in one visit, the band will most likely be too tight.

Rachel Moore, MD · Answer

There is no set protocol for the amount of fluid added to an adjustable gastric band at an office visit.  The provider will speak to you about your weight loss and any symptoms and use their clinical experience to decide what to add or remove.

Daniel J. Rosen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I am sorry you are in this position. I personally would have recommended you keep the restruction where it was and have you focus on good healthy eating and track the baby's growth with sonography to ensure it was thriving. If you were my patient, I would NOT take you back to 6.0 in one adjustment, but would break it up into 2 fills of 1.0cc spread out by at least a month, tracking your weight loss and getting fetal ultrasounds every couple weeks.  Going to fast could get you too tight leading to vomiting, slippage, or some sort of complication with the pregnancy.

How much can I have added to my gastric band in one fill appointment?

Answers (3)