Hello, my lap band story begins in August 2006. I was close to 300 lbs and had the lap band put in. For the first 4 years my experience was pretty normal. A few overfills, but not to the point of me ever thinking of getting it taken out. In fact I had in my mind I would have it in for the rest of my life. Then my 4th year hit and there was several complications. I had moved 5 hrs away from my doctor and no other doctor would see me at all. At that point, I began to get sick everyday no matter what I ate or drank. I had my days when I could eat and drink but for the most part the toilet was my best friend. I was always on the lookout for any building or grassy area that I could get sick if the need arose. I got so used to getting sick it was so routine for me that it got scary. My husband finally said that something had to be done. I called my doctor in August and my removal was scheduled for September 25th. I had such horrible heartburn and constant coughing everyday. Anyway, I had my surgery to have my lap band removed 2 weeks ago on September 25th. I have not thrown up, had heartburn or coughed once since it was taken out of me. I am still tender in my used to be port area but I expected that. I feel 1000% better. I know that there are some people that gain some of their weight back but I am determined not to be that person. I am watching what I eat and drink. I won't say that it didn't help me lose weight. I lost from 300 to 180. I don't regret getting it but I won't ever get another weight loss surgery ever again! I am happy I had it removed. I have not gotten a decent night sleep in 4 years due to the heartburn and coughing. If you have one in you still I wish you continued luck and weight loss. If you are having issues get them resolved with whatever option you feel is necessary. Good luck. Dieta

I am very glad you are happy with your choice & my best wishes for your continued health!! I do want to inquire why you suffered with 4 years of heartburn & sleep deprivation because of it? I'm not being critical I truly want to know why you & your doctor didn't jointly look into alleviating it along the way before deciding on removal. Maybe you did & couldn't but just wanted to ask

You have all of the tools you developed to lose the weight in the first place. Good luck.

So glad you have peace of mind now. Sorry you had to go through such an aweful ordeal.