I've been banded since 2007 and I only recently started visiting this site... Stupid on my part. I learned quite a few things here. I wish I had been on here when I first started out. While reading different posts to help me with my pouch dialation problems 2 weeks ago I noticed many people who have had their bands removed.

In the past I had port infection due to a tummy tuck, esophogeal hernia( which they originally thought was a band erosion) it was only when I was under anethstisia did my doctor see the problem and when I woke up I was totally ecstatic because I thought I would be waking up to having my band removed.it wasn't and I was grateful.

I read so many people saying how it was the worst mistake by getting banded, but I feel so lucky. It's worked so well and the problems I had were my likely self induced, you know not chewing properly, the dumb tummy tuck which wasn't necessary. Those problems could have been avoided. The thought of being without my band it frightening. This last problem of pouch dialation was a strong reality check. I have to remember how to eat and chew properly. Just because so many years have past I must not become complacent .

I was lucky to find so much info on these post at bariatric pal. I grateful for the posts I read and for future knowledge I can obtain just by reading other people's stories. I just wish I read more stories of people who have had great success with their band. I know I did and I love my band and can't image myself without it.

Edited April 23, 20188 yr by michellemybelle

I have not been to my bariatric doctor since my surgery. Have never had a fill, I rely entirely on the band, do not need to have the feeling of full because of the band being tightened up. It has been my choice to use this where I am comfortable and if something should go wrong I will have to find a new surgeon since my insurance does not cover this locally and there is not a bariatric doctor within 200 miles from here. Good luck and and try to make this work where you are totally in control,not waiting for your body to tell you to STOP eating because of pain from eating too much.