I am new on this forum. I was banded in May '10 and have had pretty much all good experiences. I have been losing steadily (but slowly--like 5 lbs a month). It hasn't been easy but it has been working. I've been happy with it all until today when I went in for my 2nd fill, I now have 6cc's in (I think) 10 cc band. Dr. was happy that I lost another 5 lbs. Anyway. NEW/training Dr. came in to do the fill... I was really scared but didn't say anything. It was HORRIBLE! He couldn't find the port on the ultrasound machine until the regular dr. showed him. Then he jammed the needle in and couldn't find the port, and dug around for what seemed like FOREVER. He kept hitting what sounded like the side of the port and then the needle would slip off and poke ME! Repeatedly! He stuck me badly between 5 and 10 times (too traumatized to remember). I kept saying OW and wincing and grabbing my side. Regular Dr. didn't step in until New Dr. gave up. Of course Regular Dr. took one second and did the injection smoothly. I am SORE but I do feel restriction, hoping this one lasts longer. But I'm worried that NEW Dr. damaged my port, he clearly didn't know what he was doing. I will never let him inject me again, that's for sure. Last time I volunteer as guinea pig and have to pay to be put in pain. Thanks for letting me vent.

That is terrible, I am sorry you went through that!

I think I'd write a letter to the doctor about the experience and ask that it be added to my file, keep a copy for yourself. Just in case there is a problem with your port or tubing. Especially if you were self-pay. Send it certified with return receipt so you can prove it got there.

Also, remember, you are the customer and can ask them to stop when you have had enough.

I had to do that with a lab tech would could not find a vein on me. Stabbed me too many times, and was willing to keep going until I said no more, go get someone else, please.