After almost 12 years banded, I had it removed 3 weeks ago. I don't want to scare anyone but it's been difficult for me. It was supposed to be an hour surgery but it turned into a four surgery. The Dr nicked my spleen during surgery, Had difficulty getting it to clot. Had a lot of scar tissue also. After surgery I've had pain in left shoulder and neck, voice is horse with no pain, nauseated, and not hungry. I have to force myself to eat breakfast and feel full all day like I still have the band. I have six incisions with the two nearest the port area hurt the worst. The majority of pain is in that area with slight swelling. It was worse having it removed then put in but I know it will get better. I go back for post op exam in a few days so hopefully I will get some answers to my concerns.