I always advise removal of the band simply because it is a poor product and has cause thousands of people to have permanent damage of their esophagus and stomach function. You are right about the stage where problems begin and everything tends to start going downhill. The band causes scar tissue to build up between the band and the stomach where it can't be seen and that causes it to act as if it is too tight. You can get an unfill but eventually it builds up again and starts causing problems even when empty. Your surgeon is very wise to suggest removal however I don't agree with just leaving you with no tool as most people regain without a revision to something else. Even the manufacturer changed the length of use from life time to 10 yrs so you would need to have it out soon anyway.

I would suggest you start researching the other 3 main surgeries the VSG vertical sleeve gastrectomy, the RNY gastric bypass and the DS duodenal switch. See which one would fit your lifestyle and eating style. I know of a few people who have managed to maintain their weight loss without revision such as myself but I have other health issues that caused my weight loss. In fact the band caused so much damage to my stomach and intestines that is what caused a great deal of my weight loss. I am still in pain from what the band did to me even tho it has been out for almost 2 yrs. So please don't try to keep it especially if it is causing esophageal issues for you already. When you start losing your ability to swallow that is permanent and you don't want to live that way, it is not fun. If your surgeon doesn't do revisions look around in nearby cities I'm sure you will be able to find one close by. 

As to whether your insurance will cover removal you will need to contact them and find that out and then they can tell you what if any requirements there are for removal. Best of luck to you!

It could be caused by the pressure your esophagus is experiencing while trying to push the food/ liquids down into the stomach. The nerves get pretty jumpy when that happens. I'd consider loosening up the band a bit so you don't damage those nerves or your esophagus. The band should never be so tight that it prevents normal swallowing function. 

Good luck. 

Layla...do you mind if I ask exactly about the "high pressure"?  What does it really mean?  Like I've said, I've heard it mentioned but never asked what it means.  I wanted to talk to my doctor about it.

Thanks!

When I am too full or too tight, most of the pain I have experienced was in the center of my chest, but I can see where it would cause pain in the back as well. If you are having pain like that from only a few sips of liquid, you are WAY too tight.

In my experience, a fill will loosen up a little bit after the initial stomach irritation. However, if you cannot even drink a cup of coffee or eat a popsicle, it will not loosen up that much. I would advise having some of that fill removed. Especially with it being Friday, don't suffer over the weekend with a fill that is too tight. I hope you feel better!

I am so glad you are doing well, Naomi! :)