I'm at 10cc in a 14cc band, and I'm travelling to Peru for two weeks in October. I'll be taking part in some ceremonies with traditional healing plants, which are known to sometimes induce vomiting. Knowing that vomiting could be an issue with the band, I asked my doctor about this. Much to my surprise, he recommended that I get a partial (as in "most") unfill before my trip, and refill afterward. As he put it, you don't want to be out in the jungles of Peru, having a problem with the band.

I have some real misgivngs about this idea. In talking with the guides leading my planned trip, the vomiting reaction is not really common (they've had only one person vomit, and he'd worked himself up ahead of time to the point that he was overanxious and probably brought it on himself). Naturally, I also worry about regaining weight during the trip. Finally, if I do get a "big" unfill before the trip, can it all be replaced afterward, or would I have to work up a little at a time, just as I did to get to my 10cc?

Has anyone else here been temporarily unfilled for travel purposes? Has anyone not had an unfill prior to travel, and wish they had? Thoughts? Experiences?

Well, how do you work with your band? Does it give you a lot of trouble? (like getting stuck a lot) If not I'd say leave it. Also you never know if the amount of fill will be the same when you refill it.. might take months to get it to the right spot again.

I would get the unfill your doc. is recommending. You will be eating different foods I assume, and they might give you some trouble. If the band is nice and loose this shouldn't happen. It's a scary thought to have a problem with your band while in Peru. Just my humble opinion. I am also going over seas in Oct.- can't wait. I am maintaining my weight- had a large unfill a few months after reaching goal so I think I will be ok.