I was banded in 2007 in the USA. Struggled the entire process. Acid reflux, burping, not being able to keep anything down even will 2cc in my band. I'm traveling to Mexico to get it removed on Aug. 7th by Dr. Alvarez. Has anyone had any experience with Dr. Alvarez?

Has anyone had their band removed and felt like a failure?

I hope to get a sleeve in a few months!

Well, my band was removed after almost exactly 4 years and 120 lbs weight loss. Since the insurance did not cover the conversion I decided to do just the removal.

I had the surgery last Wednesday around 8 am and was back home around 1 pm. I only ate some soup that day and a few chips. It was an amazing feeling being able to actually eat a cup of soup and having it go down without having to vomit it all out again.

The next day I already ate some solids. The third day a regular breakfast and lunch. Amazing.

My stomach and belly were pretty sore for the first 3 days, especially when sitting down, getting up and eating. I also had a lot of issues using the restroom (urinary and bowel retention are very common after anesthesia) but it is getting back to almost normal.

I realize I will probably gain some weight back but I will try to keep it to 10-15 lbs. I plan on continuing eating only half portions in restaurants and no more than 6-8 oz at home. Hopefully my willpower will be enough. I definitely do not want to get anywhere close to my old weight.

I will keep you updated.

I have gained 5 or 6 pounds in the last 2 weeks but that is o.k.

I is just so much joy being able to eat real food again after years of misery. I realize I will need to control my food intake but even if I eat half portions from what is commonly served it is probably still twice of what I used to eat with my band and the restriction. I am not sure if the enlarged esophagus caused less of the food and nutrients to be absorbed but eventually the food must have ended up in the stomach. I went from maybe 2 bowel movements to daily which indicates more food. Many friends and colleagues have commented that I look so much better (happier) even though they do not know about my procedure.