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Anonymous

Kelley, thanks for openly sharing your story. While the band is a very good tool for many of us, there are many things to consider before choosing the band, or choosing a surgeon far away. Initial surgery fees are only the first part of costs. I agree with you that having local followup care, and a very comprehensive aftercare program (not simply fills and fluoros) is critical to longterm success. The surgery itself is only the very first small step, and there are many excellent surgeons both in the US and in Mexico. But it is the months and years of aftercare that determine success.

Your story shows the dangers of reflux/gerd, which just can never be allowed to continue , banded or not. the resulting "Barrett's Esophagus" (which you seem to have had) is a very serious pre-cancerous condition requiring Band removal.

Now, I'd urge you to consult some local doctors about the new Inamed AP (Advanced Performance) bands. They are not used at all in Mexico, but Dr. Terry Simpson in Phoenix and most other US docs use them exclusively now. They were designed to specifically address and minimize the slip and erosion rates from earlier bands, and have a new design to be "gentler" on the stomach and esophagus.

If you want to be re-banded, please look honestly at the pros and cons, and consult several experienced surgeons.
The very best to you -

Sandy Richards, BSN, MN
Band Educator
banded in MX, 2003
at goal 4.5 yrs
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May 31, 2008 - 10:53am

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