Do I need my lap band emptied before I get a revision? Is there a preference between sleeve and bypass after lap band?

Question

Underwent lap band in 2008. Lost 50+ lbs. But would like to loose 70 more. I am 36 yrs old. I sought two quotes for revision from lap band to sleeve or bypass. One surgeon told me I needed the band emptied for a month before sleeve. He would only agree to do the sleeve. The other surgeon said I didn't need lap band emptied and he could do either sleeve or bypass. Have no health issues besides obesity and occasional heart burn. Which is the correct way?

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, I hope you are well. After a lap band it would be most appropiate a conversion to gastric sleeve. Although a decision between a sleeve and a bypass depends on various factors that you do not mention, a gastric sleeve is probably your best choice.

H. Joseph Naim, MD, FACS · Answer

You really don’t need to empty the band if you have no complications.
The surgery can be done safely, as a one stage operation, where the band is removed at the same time as the revision.
Both options of Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass are good, but most surgeons including me recommend the Sleeve as it’s less invasive.

Francisco Gonzales, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

It doesn't look like you will need the Lap Band emptied unless you have some sort of obstruction. Normally, the lap band is removed during the first part of the revision surgery. 
You also asked which revision surgery is best for you (sleeve or bypass). It would depend on your current BMI. If you have a BMI higher than 50 then a bypass would typically be the best option. Under 50 BMI you could go either way and it depends a lot on you current medical condition and weight loss goals. Talk to a bariatric doctor in order to get a better idea of your options.

Mark Pleatman, MD (retired) · Answer

If you are symptomatic with obstruction; GERD, vomiting, difficulty swallowing... then I would empty the band first.  If you are doing fine and have no difficulty eating, then I wouldn't bother to empty the band.My preferred operation is sleeve gastrectomy.  It has similar weight loss as gastric bypass, but a much lower complication rate.  If you are paying out-of-pocket, total cost with me, including hospital and anesthesia, would be about $13,000 for the conversion.Regarding one or two stage; I always do the conversion in one stage unless the band has eroded into the stomach.

Angelina Postoev, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Great question.
Best answered by your surgeon. 
Some would actually have 2 stage procedure. First - remove lap band.
Allow any swelling to go away. Then- bring back for Sleeve or Bypass.
We would at least decompress the lap band first.
Also, consider ESG. Endoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy. Less maintaince the Band.

Good Luck

Do I need my lap band emptied before I get a revision? Is there a preference between sleeve and bypass after lap band?

Answers (5)

Answer: Emptying of band before revision... it depends

Answer: Emptying of band before revision... it depends

Answer: Lap Band conversion to Sleeve.

Answer: Lap Band conversion to Sleeve.

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Everything you need to know about Lap Band

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Do I need my lap band emptied before I get a revision? Is there a preference between sleeve and bypass after lap band?

Answers (5)

Answer: Emptying of band before revision... it depends

Answer: Emptying of band before revision... it depends

Answer: Lap Band conversion to Sleeve.

Answer: Lap Band conversion to Sleeve.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lap Band

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.