I went to Iraq for 18 months and had my band emptied before I left. I had the band filled all the way when I returned a year ago, but I was able to still eat normally. I know I should have gone back, but I didn't. I let myself get consumed with work and I figured that I probably stretched my band and screwed up the surgery. I haven't gained all the weight back, but I have gained too much! I'm wondering if anyone else has had a similar experience? Is it too late for me?

To be honest, I had so many issues with my band. I'm sure most of the issues were because of poor decisions. But I used to have acid reflux so bad that I would literally get vomit in my hair (sorry, don't mean to gross you out). During those episodes, I wouldn't be able to even swallow a sip of Water until I got the band loosened. I was sure the band slipped, but they always told me it was fine.

Any advice would be appreciated. I should mention that I had the surgery just over 7 years ago!

The first thing you need to realize is that you should be able to eat normally with the band. The band isn't supposed to physically stop you from eating anything. It's supposed to help you to go 4 or more hours on a cup or less of food without getting hungry. Restricting how much you eat is totally your job.

Here's a great link I think will help: http://drsimpson.net/fills/Lap-band-eating/lap-band-not-restriction/lap-band-and-restriction.html

You need to get back into your surgeon as soon as possible. Part of the band is also ongoing maintenance and you are definitely past due.

Best wishes.

Thanks for your quick response, Missy! I read the website link. Now I feel more concerned that I most likely stretched my pouch. I thought that if I had no fluid in my band I couldn't stretch it. I will make plans soon to see my surgeon. Any other advice from anyone would be appreciated.

Banded seven years also, unfilled my band for cancer treatment and never got the right restriction back. I can't eat as much as a non banded person, but I can eat a whole sandwich at 3.2cc in a 4 cc band - it just isn't right.

I have mild heartburn and m on nexium so lthough I need t o get a bit more fill, I won't. I think there are other reasons besides my band for the heartburn but I don't want to push it.

I'm thinking I just have to make the best of what I can. My BMi is 22 but I'm 5kg heavier than I want to be.

Interesting article missy