I was banded 7 yrs ago and was able to lose all my weight and keep it off. No problems and I was feeling pretty good. Over the last 4 months I started having more heartburn and coughing at night. No vomiting or gagging. I was a True Results patient and the site here closed down few years back. I never had Bariatric coverage on my recent insurance plans so I never went for follow up. I didn’t have issues and felt good .

2 days ago woke up with severe upper abdominal pain and vomiting. It felt like stomach spasms. My band was cutting off blood flow and no fluids would go down. We decided on emergency band removal. My esophagus was inflamed and swollen, I never felt much pain . I blamed heartburn on eating later etc.my stomach was distended.

Im relieved we caught it but I will miss it.Is that weird? I’ve been pretty successful but I always knew the band was there, like a backup. I’m afraid I will gain weight. I went from about 275 to 165-170. Not small but I’m happy for my height 5’7”. I’m feeling stupid for panicking 2 days post op.

Glad you are OK, that is pretty scary.

First let me say, you did amazing with the band! I know exactly where you are. I had my hand removed for similar reasons back in March. I was dependent upon the band for restriction as well. I knew it was there and I hadn’t lost any more weight but I hadn’t gained either. I knew I would miss my band. While I never made it to goal, I have kept off roughly 65 pounds. I had my band for 8 years. Don’t feel stupid. Know that you can keep it off on your own. The last three months I have started working out more and watching what I eat. (In full disclosure I will be having VSG done soon.) You can do this.

Hopefully after seven years of life with your band you have learned good eating habits and portion control. As long as you continue to eat the same things you have been you shouldn't gain weight just because your band is gone. You are going to have to be super diligent not to eat larger portions just because you can. Good luck!