I'm sorry, but what does this have to do with anything. Are we suppose to be friending people here so that experiences are deemed more valid or valuable than others? When I started this thread, I started it hoping the band was more of a permanent weight loss tool that would assist me the remainder of my life. Not thinking that it would eventually have to be removed (which insurance may not cover w/o major complications). I wanted to know what you all know. I've done a lot of research, talked to my dr, attended support group mtgs, and have asked a lot of questions and have received responses from banders and sleevers.
I appreciate you all sharing the good, bad and ugly with me. What I don't like is the demeaning and condescending tones some of the posts have had. This is a support forum, so we should support and respect everyone's views because hopefully they are all based on experience and not hate stemmed from your own decision. So, I must say that I value the opinions of those that have had the band longer (regardless of manufacturer) than those that are less than 5 or so years because I'm looking for long term support.