Hello,
Regrettably, the Band does sometimes cause more trauma on the upper stomach than it helps. It sounds to be as if your stomach is not emptying well, a condition sometimes called "gastric bloat." This may be caused by the inflammation around the top of the stomach which remains for several months after the Band is removed; the inflammation interferes with proper function of the nearby Vagus nerves. Since the Vagus nerves have to do with the emptying function of the stomach, a deficiency in function would mean that your stomach retains much of the fluid and food that would normally pass downstream.

This theory can be tested with a radiology test called a "Nuclear gastric emptying scan." If I'm correct, it can be treated (at least partially) using an acid-blocker such as omeprazole, and a medicine that enhances gastric emptying called metoclopramide. (Metoclopramide sometimes has neurologic side effects, you and your doctor can discuss the pros/cons).

Another thing to consider is a possible contained leak or abscess in your abdomen, left over from damage caused by the Band. This would be more likely if you have fever, which you did not mention. If this becomes a significant concern then a CT scan of the abdomen would be useful.

This situation should improve over time to a point that you feel normal. If not, and if you remain overweight, a gastric bypass procedure would likely take care of the bloating problem as well as the excess weight.

Best wishes!
Dr JP