I had my lap band removed two days ago after having it in for 2 years. I intially lost 20 pounds and then went on the fill/unfill roller coaster and eventually unfilled about 6 months post surgery because could never get the sweet spot. Because I was unfilled, I over induldged (which is easy to do) and PB'ing was a part of everyday life for me. I spoke to my original surgeon and a new surgeon about getting it out - insurance denied the removal. Months later my port site started hurting and the pain got worse, visited dr on Tuesday and he said that he can file an appeal. By Friday (11/16) I couldn't stand it and went to the ER. He did an emergency removal and said I had a lot of scar tissue. He gave me a big waist band type thing to wear while walking and Lortab for pain (which has worked good). I had a lot of pain from the intubation tube (apparently I'm a fighter) but that has subsided somewhat. I've eaten scrambled eggs, cream of wheat and milk. Kept it bland and soft as per instructions. I was given carafate to prevent ulcers and have experienced constipation. All in all I'm very pleased with the removal and am looking forward to a life without that band in me. My DH was worried I will start over eating, which I honestly don't think that's a problem. One thing that did change while banded was I became a vegetarian, so when I indulge it's on the good stuff. If anyone has any words of wisdom after being debanded and liking it. Please let me know.
Thanks for letting me share.
