I had my band 6 years and have had off and on good and bad experiences. I lost 70 lbs but have put 25 back on since I had my gallbladder removed. Since June I have had severe heartburn that does not go away. I have had numerous swallow test and was on liquid diet for three week along with the fill completely removed. Nothing has helped and I was told to get it removed is my only hope. I'm scared to go back through this again and pray no complications happen. I trust my doctor but it's that fear again what if I go through this and this isn't the problem. I'm also a little sad for having to remove it and my husband thinks I'm silky because I've been so sick and I should want it out. I do bit also scared I will gain weight back. Wish me luck as I become unban dedicated tomorrow.

Ohh please look into the possibility of a hiatal hernia. I have not done the research, but spent the majority of my life taking "Tums" for constant heartburn prior to my lapband about six years ago. The surgeon found the hernia and removed it during the procedure. He did tell me it was the cause and I could not believe the difference!!

I wish you ALL the Best!

@@LAURIE290 May be on to something there!

I had a double para-esophageal hiatus hernia and I didn't know it. All I knew was that I was popping Tums like candy and had horrendous acid coming up, especially at night. I was banded December 19th 2014 (10 months ago) and my surgeon was the one who discovered the hernias while I was under. He corrected them, and I have been heartburn-free and feeling absolutely terrific ever since.

Good luck - keep us posted!

I still have the hernia but my band was removed 5 days ago - not a second of refiux since. I used to live on medication to try to control it but it would wake me at least 4 times a night. My band had slipped for the second time and I couldn't eat or drink much at all. I lost all my weight in the first 3 years and maintained it for the last 5, most likely due to the slip. Im now slightly under weight.

I too am petrified at putting the weight back on but straight away I have bought a fitbit, joined myfitnesspal and the gym and I am determined to be stronger and get my stamina back. It was no way to live - reflux and throwing up after every meal, poor food choices just to get something down.

Still, I wouldn't change a thing because I consider this my next chapter. I am so grateful for my journey!

You are so true. I don't regret my band but Im going to not have to worry when I ho somewhere what I can get down and not get stuck. I also plan to exercise and try to stay fit. My dr told me you've had it for 6 yrs and you know what uou need to do. Good luck