I am 7 years out on my band I have had nothing but problems for the last 3. I have struggled to maintain what little weight loss that I did achieve. Developed seen kidney stones,thyroid disease other rebellious body problems that I suspect are related to the band. Hindsight is greater than foresight or wishes. I should have gone with the bypass in the beginning. I am now 58 and under going this surgery to hopefully halt the progression of the "fat" diseases or co-morbidities.Lose the weight and be healthier so I can livelonger to enjoy retiring.