Flying with a gastric band!

Hi, has anyone had any problems with their band when flying? I know some surgeons say it should be partially deflated.....I will consult my surgeon, but just wondered if anyone had flown without doing this and what the happened, if anything? 

No problems here flying with the band or in airport security (they do a double take but it most are familiar with it).....the band is filled with fluid not air so the pressure change shouldn't affect it.....what might affect it is dehydration, some people me included don't drink enough water when flying which for me can make me a little tighter but returns when hydrated.....I personally wouldn't have fill taken out for a trip although I have never flown for more than 4 hours at a time.

Michele

Hi Michele, thanks for that info.....its something to do with getting air bubbles which makes the band tighten up. I don't want the band deflated either for flying, because that could be fatal when its "All inclusive" lol

I'll be flying for 6 hrs so I guess I'd better check with the surgeon.

Thanks anyway...Jill

flew from NB, Canada to  Hawaii last year with no problems. 

Hi Michele, what do you mean security takes a "double take"?  They can see it on the screen or something?

I went to Canada and I went through one of those body scan machines........it shows up like it would on a x-ray. 

 I have problems with tightness while in-air, so I just stay it by ear when it comes to solid foods. Usually ask for milk and mix a shake. On the ground, however, I'm fine.

I've never heard of partially unfilling for flying . . . 

Hi, many thanks for the reply, its all usefull to know.   In the uk they suggest partial deflation but I'm trying to see if anyone hasn't done it and has had serious problems?

Thanks...Jill

 Kate P would the one to ask. She's from the UK and flies all the time.

I haven't ever had an unfill prior to flying and the only trouble I've ever had has been, as I said, during the flight.