Lap Band Slippage & Gastric Sleeve: What to Expect After Bariatric Surgery

Question
I have had my Lap Band for 2 years now and went in to my surgeon to get a fill because I have plateau for a while. During which he thinks my band slipped or eroded. He is recomending a gastric sleeve. Is band slippage common? Also if I decide to just get another band- will that one slip as well? I'm very sad about having to make this decision. Thank you

Answer
Jennifer,
You are right that this is a distressing situation.  Most people who have a Band are very happy with it, because of how it helps them get their weight under better control.

Nevertheless, a Band slip does occur in 3-5% of patients.  In most cases, a Band slip can be "repaired" laparoscopically but the chance of a recurrent slip is significant, in the range of 10% repeat slip.  Erosion is much less common but it is also a serious problem.

These are the reasons that your surgeon may offer conversion to a sleeve, though it sounds like he/she is open to Band revision as well.  It sounds to me as if either of these is a reasonable option.

Best wishes,
Dr JP