Does my lap band need to be emptied when I get an endoscopy?

I agree that you should only have and endoscopy by your bariatric surgeon.  Most gastroenterologists do not know how a band should look during endoscopy.  We do not deflate bands during endoscopy. A bariatric surgeon experienced in Lap-Band and enodscopy is the most qualified person to perform your endoscopy.

Generally, an EGD is possible without deflation.  However, if your band is pretty tight then it may be more difficult. I usually remove some fluid for my patients.  

It does not need to be emptied, they can get through it easily. However, they may note that you have a "hiatal hernia" and if that is the case you may need to have the band emptied and be on a liquid diet.  That usually means you have dilated the upper pouch .