Is it ALWAYS a must to have the band removed eventually. If you follow all the rules & have no complications do you eventually have to have it removed? I am only 36, so should I plan on a "removal" surgery eventually? How long can it stay in? I am just in the work up stage, haven't gotten approval yet from my insurance.

From what I have read, everyone that has minor complaints and don't need it removed seem like the pros outweigh the cons????

For someone who is at their goal weight....Is the port really noticable through the skin when you get to a size 6 or 8, etc? Can you see it?

It is designed as a permanent device. So if there are no complications then yes it could theoretically stay in for ever. However in 20 years time there might be a new , better solution for obesity and you might then opt for that instead. I suppose it all depends on how long you live as most implants do not seem to last for ever, many have to be replaced(hips, knees, heart valves etc)

Hi,

I'm 36 years old too and I just got banded October 5th. I only have 50 pounds to lose. I was worried about my port showing since my brother in laws shows so bad it sticks out. My doctor placed the realize band and I can't even see or feel the port. I don't even know were it is. The band should be replaced every 10 years or so. Just like breast implants. Its not a easy solution specially the first 3 weeks of surgery. I am still on liquids and I crave food all day. I miss eating real food.

Is it ALWAYS a must to have the band removed eventually. If you follow all the rules & have no complications do you eventually have to have it removed? I am only 36, so should I plan on a "removal" surgery eventually? How long can it stay in? I am just in the work up stage, haven't gotten approval yet from my insurance.

From what I have read, everyone that has minor complaints and don't need it removed seem like the pros outweigh the cons????

For someone who is at their goal weight....Is the port really noticable through the skin when you get to a size 6 or 8, etc? Can you see it?

It's suppose to stay with you forever. But the surgery has only been around for 15(I think) years so they don't really know if it could last a lifetime... Theoretically it should... Also, once you're at goal and if your port is supper noticeable and you don't like it, they can replace your port with a low profile one and locate it in a spot that is less noticeable. A lot of plastic surgeons do it if you go in for a tummy tuck or something like that.

There is nothing that says it should be replaced every 10 years or so.......

I am a size 8 (Australian) which equates to a size 4 US. My port doesn't stick out but I am sure everyone is different. It depends on where the port is placed and where you lose your weight. I have skinny hips/legs but do not have a completely flat stomach.

Everyones already said its meant to be forever, but in truth, its likely the balloon part will wear out and youll need a new band - thats what my surgeon says anyhow. As to the port, im five ft ten and a size 8 and yes it sticks out and is very visible. Im getting a bit long in the tooth for a bikini anyhow so it doesnt bother me.