Expert: Karla K. - 11/17/2009

Question
I was banded in 8-07, had some problems but thought they it was worth the sacrifice. Lost 136lbs. I have developed reflux,and I vomit everyday. Now I am having abdominal pain (left side, below ribs). This has been a rough year, I am having depression as well. Are these symptoms something else or band?

Answer
Hi Rachel:

It does sound like your problems could be Band related... perhaps a slip or prolapse.  Please call your surgeon today and try to arrange a consult.  

The depression is actually pretty common in bariatric surgery patients.  You may want to also talk to your surgeon about that as well.  There are psychologists who specialize in bariatric patients who might be able to help.  He also may try an anti-depressant with you.  It can be really tough to deal with things that come your way when one of your coping mechanisms (eating) has been taken away rather suddenly.  I think that your reflux and vomiting are probably contributing to that--as nobody wants to live like that.

You might also want to talk about your revision options--as it sounds like your Band may need to come out.  A very tight (no more than 32F bougie) Sleeve Gastrectomy would be one good option--and most likely would alleviate your vomiting but allow you to keep your weight off.

Please, call your surgeon today, though.  Those symptoms are not normal and could indicate something has gone wrong with your Band.  If you were Banded outside of the country, contact your surgeon anyway--and s/he should be able to refer you to somebody locally.

Hope this helps.

Kind Regards,
Karla