Adjustable Gastric Band Removal

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
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AMBULATORY CARE:

What you need to know about gastric band removal:

Your band may need to be removed if it has eroded (moved) into the stomach. The band may also need to be removed if there is a break or leak, or it has slipped out of place.

How to prepare for gastric band removal:

Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for surgery. Your provider may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. You will be told which medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery. Arrange to have someone drive you home and stay with you to make sure you are okay.

What will happen during gastric band removal:

You may be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during surgery. Your surgeon will make small incisions in your abdomen. The gastric band will be cut and removed. The incisions will be closed with stitches or medical tape.

What will happen after gastric band removal:

You may be sent home the same day or you may need to stay overnight.

Risks of gastric band removal:

You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. You may gain weight after your band is removed. You may get a blood clot in your arm or leg. This may become life-threatening.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call 911 for any of the following:

• You feel lightheaded, short of breath, and have chest pain.
• You cough up blood.

Seek care immediately if:

• Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
• Blood soaks through your bandages.
• Your stitches or incisions come apart.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever or chills.
• You have redness, swelling, or pus coming from your incisions.
• You have nausea and are vomiting.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Self-care:

• Care for your wound as directed. When you allowed to bathe, carefully wash the wound with soap and water. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty.
• Do activity or exercise as directed. Ask your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you.
• Eat healthy foods as directed. Work with your dietitian or healthcare provider about the best nutrition plan for you.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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