I had my band put in 7 years ago, and I've never really had luck with fills or restriction from it. I would be fine for months then suddenly be over restricted. Therefore the majority of the time I left the band empty. I had not had any fills or issues for a year (empty band) until I was suddenly in so much pain at my band site that I couldn't function from a Friday to a Monday. I got into doctor ASAP on Monday morning and they said I had an infection and abscess near my port and lap band had to come out that day. I was in the hospital 4 days after surgery due to the infection. I am now post op 8 days and have been having a hard time eating regular food (even though I ate perfectly fine before band removal). I felt almost like I was restricted tonight but my band is gone. Anone else have issues after band was removed that I need it watch for?

I haven't had my band removed yet (it's forthcoming) but I suspect removal causes some swelling in the banded area, especially if the surgeon had to cut out any scar tissue that may have built up under the band.

Did they how your port and lap band became infected?

Parisshel they do not know what caused it to be infected. It had just been sitting there for years. Within the last 3 months I had started training for a half marathon. I wonder if all the activity caused it to slip but they only said there was an abscess and it was infected. I can say I am super happy to have it out though.

Wow...that's scary to know that an infection can occur just like that.

I'm looking forward to my removal, too. Mine has been a ticking time bomb for the past year, when I started having complications. I'm glad to not have to continue to worry about "what next"?

Wishing you the best, and especially for your half marathon.

Recovery has been much slower than when I got it in but I'm getting stronger every day. Best of luck on your removal too. Hopefully it will be easier than mine since it is scheduled and not infected.