Can lap band be switched to sleeve?

This topic has been debated, and most surgeons now agree that conversion can be done safely in one step.  Risk is only slightly higher, but the advantages to the patient:  one operation instead of two, with less time, less recovery, etc., make it the obvious best option.There are several exceptions, however. If the band has eroded into the stomach, or if there is a severe slippage with swelling or loss of blood supply to the stomach, a two-stage approach is mandatory.  Otherwise they can generally be done in one step.  I do these routinely.