It's early in the game to be even asking this...

What are the reasons for removing the lap band? Is it usually some physical problem like dysphagia or slippage or erosion, or is it ever just a choice as "it isn't helping", or "I've lost the weight and the desire to eat inappropriately" (right, we've all been there)?

Sivan:peep:

Hi Sivan,

The various reasons people have their bands removed are all across the board. However, in my experience, I've never heard of someone simply deciding, after a while of being banded without problems, to have the band removed "just because." But of course, it's a personal decision so I suppose that's as valid a reason as any other.

Most people who get banded intend for it to be a permant implant, and it's only removed if it's causing problems of one sort or another. I know for myself, even if it didn't work and I hadn't lost much weight, I wouldn't have another surgery to take it out unless it was really creating issues. Surgery is risky all by itself, and I hope to have as few surgeries in my life as humanly possible.