I have been banded for almost 2 years. I have lost almost 150 pounds since my surgery but have had several issues. I have had 3 additional surgeries since my initial LAP-BAND® surgery. I have had 2 port replacements and 1 surgery to move my port to make it easier for the doctor access it. My last port replacement was in November of 2009 and I need to go in for an unfill (I had my last fill in on December 30, 2009), I am having night coughs and reflux. I am scared because I do not want to gain any weight and I do not want to get another leak. I know this is stupid since I am doing myself more harm than good but I cannot afford any more expenses....I need help (mental encouragement).

Thank you,

Amy

First off WOW you have done great! I have had to have my port replaced too and I know it is not fun. But... if you are having reflux you need to go in and get a bit of an unfil, I had that issue and they only took out .1cc and the reflux was gone. So dont get discouraged, sometimes things in there shift a bit, and our fluid need changes, just get a tiny unfil and you will probably be right back where you need to be.

Your doing great. I agree a slight unfill will really help you out. You don't want to do damage to your band that causes you to need a complete unfill.

(((Hugs))) I'm sorry you're having difficulty.

I just had a .1 cc unfill a couple of days ago since I was still getting a bit of reflux 1-2 days per week. I originally got a .1 cc unfill after almost nightly reflux issues and it didn't quite cure the problem. A titch more taken out and haven't had a problem since.

Side note: I never had reflux issues before being banded, so this was new to me. Now I know how being a little too tight effects me...the sweet spot can be a very fine line. But please don't worry. They shouldn't have to do a complete unfill unless you have a pouch dilation. And that would show up on a flouroscopy.

Does your Dr your fills/unfills under floro? Maybe this would help with your anxiety about the port.