I have the realize band. I have been banded for 2 1/2 months. I have lost 40 pounds. This is 40% of what I have to lose. Every one is different and the realize or lapband with be successful for anyone who is really ready.
As my doctor explained, the reason the realize has not gone through many changes is because it was basically "correct" in its pressure from the beginning. The lapband has gone through many changes and now has a pressure similar to the realize band. You do not fix something that isn't broke.
Regardless of what you read on here, your doctor is generally your best resource. If you follow his/her lead then you will be successful with either band. By the way, my doc recommends them equally and allowed me to choose.
Be cautious of anyone in this forum(rockbandster) who try to lessen the effectiveness of the realize band. If you do not have a realize band how can you talk about its lack of success?
Getting the band has been the best decision I have ever made!! I am sure that many folks with the lapband would agree.