yes you can have them removed. my daughter had a button put in at 5months and we used it until she was 10months for nitetime feedings and then didnt use it after and had it removed at 4 yrs old. I will say that there were times that it would have made a big difference for her especially after she started school. weight has been an issure for her. she's almost 14 and 2 yrs ago the dr mentioned the button, she freaked out and ate like a horse. she's at 47th inher bmi so we are doing pretty good. I will be honest I hated that thing but I also realize how much we needed it. If i had it to do over again and would have known she would not gain as well after starting school i would have kept it longer.
when they mentioned it a couple of years ago, rain just kicked it in gear, she drinks two pedisure plus first thing in the morning and 2 before bed, we say she power-slams them lol.