I had the band put on 15 years ago when it was not adjustable, it did not work for about 20% and it did not work for me so I had it removed in about 18months later. I now have congestive heart failure and diabetes because of the weight I carried around all theese years, If I too could have stuck to the adkins lifestyle or zone i would be quite small and in good health. that is why i think i would be crazy to get the band again because even though it is adjustable now , I think it is not going to change the kind of food i will eat. I also think that since my insurance will not pay that i may be getting myself into a lot of trouble with more cost if I have a complications. I just started reading this blog today and joined today, but I think I am going to have to do this thing myself if I can. I know what you go thru with it, the gas, food getting stuck and I don't want to go thru that again. Also i am 55 and not looking to look great only feel great. I only need to loose 75 lbs so I best get started, Atkins her I come again for the 50th time , hope I LOOSE THE 80 LBS i LOST ON IT TWO TIMES BEFORE THIS TIME I WILL TRY TO KEEP IT OFF FOR GOOD. GOOD LUCK TOO ALL OF YOU WITH THE BAND , I JUST DON'T THINK IT IS WORTH THE RISK FOR ME.