Surgeon did an ultrasound to check where fluid was going and then operated to remove accessport and tubing. Band is working fine now. Fluid can cause an infection, but if it does not permeate into the abdominal cavity it is not so bad.
I had my tubing replaced in November 2008. I had several fills and still kept eating. Eventually I had stomach cramps and it was discovered fluid was leaking into the skin.
My lap band ceased to work and I regained almost all of the weight I lost. My doctor did x-ray ( barium meal) to see how much the puch could hold and then did a gastroscopy and found that the band was empty of Fluid despite numerous fills. It turned out that the tubing between the access port and the actual Lap Band was leaking - no wonder I gained weight. The surgeon replaced tubing and access port and I have now lost 10kgs in 2 weeks. Dont blame yourself there must be a logical reason for this problem.
In Melbourne a referral from a GP lasts 12 months ( unless specified as an indefinite referral) referrals from one specialist to another only last three months.:thumbup:
A tummy tuck is not considered cosmetic surgery if there are medidcal reasons for it eg rash, discomfort etc. It is best to wait about 12-18months after Lap Banding to make sure your weight is stable. My Lap Band Surgoen referred me to a plastic surgeon who does quite a few procedures of banded patients.