If I my getting a Tummy tuck and have a gastric band, do I have to get the fill in my band empty?

You bring up a very important point. You do not need to remove the fluid from your lap band, but it is very important that you tell your surgeon that you have a lap band. It's very important that they know where the port is and take care not to injure it during the operation. They may need to move it out-of-the-way if it is in the area where the surgeon plans on working.

My experience differs with the other answers to this question based on my experience.  Basically, your individual situation will dictate what the best course of action will be.-Your abdomen will be tighter after surgery and this can increase the feeling of fullness and restriction from your band. If you are currently "tight"  or have any history of getting things like bread or meat "stuck" then I suggest emptying the band.-You may develop nausea or vomiting after surgery from the anesthesia or pain meds. This can be a problem and cause swelling of the stomach around the band. I have seen this issue several times and it can take a while to settle down.-You will need increased calories after surgery to promote healing, especially if you are considering a more extensive procedure. A tight band can interfere with you getting your nutrition in, plus the meds you will be taking.-Interestingly, when I have emptied  bands there is often less fill than the bariatric surgeon or patient believed. Probably because of slow leakage of saline or a "miss" during the fill procedure. Unfill gets you a chance to reset your adjustments.Tummy tuck is also a chance to reseat the port, as it often becomes loose after weight loss.BestDr L 

No, you do not need to have your band emptied.  There will be a port that your plastic surgeon will have to watch out from when doing the tummy tuck surgery, but otherwise you should be fine.  Best of luck!

Dear Melita40,



No. There should be no difference whether the
band is full or empty. It is important that the surgeon be aware of the port
because when the muscles are tightened it will displace the position and need
to be repositioned. Certainly, your surgeon should be comfortable in relocating
the port.



I hope this has been helpful.



Robert D. Wilcox, MD

Thank you for your question. You do not need to change the fill of your lap band prior to tummy tuck surgery. Make sure you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area that is familiar with patients that have lost a significant amount of weight through lap band surgery.Best Regards,Dr. Stutman