Do you recommend removing a lapband before having a tummy tuck? Will there be a bulge from the port in the stomach area?

Thanks for your question.  I have performed many tummy tucks in patients who have had a lap band.  The surgeon has to be careful when lifting the skin around and over the port, but I have not had issues postoperatively with a visible bulge.  Generally, most patients will have enough skin/fat thickness to hide the port.  Discuss with your surgeon prior to surgery. Good luck. 

Generally it is not necessary to remove the lap band port for a tummy tuck. It will definitely be seen during the procedure and may have some impact on how high up the rectus fascial plication can be done. But usually it does not cause  a visible bulge after having had a tummy tuck.