Hello Bea...sorry for the late response....just joined after banding on 6/24....My "left" pain brought doubts, fears and remorse....seriously! The hospital and my Dr. called to ck up on me and I asked what this pain was. They both explained that during the lap surgery, the tummy is filled w/gas, which brings pain and restriction for a few days. With that said, still a bit of gas left...but the a similar restriction/pain will also come due to drinking too fast/too much....I sooo relate to what you felt...I even thought at one point because I couldn't take a deep breath, that maybe I was having a heart attack.....Soooo many things run through your head when you hurt....I hope you are doing better...take care :scared2: