How likely is scar tissue going to affect me when I have revision?

Although operating on non-operated abdomen is always much easier and lower risk, an experienced bariatric surgeon will frequently operate on abdomens that have had previous operations.  Gastric band revision operation to a gastric bypass or sleeve is not a very difficult operation but it will most likely take additional time and skill.  You need a surgeon who has patience and can experience with this type of revision.  I typically try to place my revision cases on a light day with plenty of time to invest into the surgery. 

I revise band to sleeve or bypass all the time.  Some patients have more scars than others.  I have done band revision to bypass where there were hardly any scars.  I have also done others with many scars.  In the hands of an experienced bariatric surgeon, the band can be revised to a bypass safely.  look for a bariatric surgeon in your area with such experience.  FYI: band revision to sleeve or bypass is going to be one of the most commonly done bariatric procedures.  There are a lot of patients with bands out there.  Every band eventually will need to come out.  

It should not be an issue. In fact, the safest route for patients like yourself is to remove the band first and perform a bypass or sleeve 3+ months later. Time allows the natural scarring reaction (capsule) from the lap band to go away.