So, i'm sure i'll be successful in my weight loss journey, but I stress about the ability to maintain that. You never hear about the 5-8+ post op people. Is it easy to maintain for life!?

We have quite a few folks on this site that have maintained for several years. the man that started this site, Alex is one of them.

Another person is Jauquet (I think that is her name). Just look for them, they are there. Good luck. Karen

My BFF had her surgery in 2003. She started out over 300 pounds and got as low as 140. She honestly looked unhealthy at that weight and gained a little back. She has maintained 165 for 5-6 years with little if any restriction.

Go onto the success stories forum and you'll find lots of people that are maintaining and doing well.

That's good to hear! The reason I was resistant to anything like this is because of the LOOONG term success. But I can only take one day/year at a time I guess.

Im not gaving any trouble in fact ive been unfilled for eight months for some unrelated surgeries. I havent gained, but im pretty single minded about it. I have continued running/bootcamp/bodypump and eaten well through radiation, chemo and major bowel surgeries. But the band was a large part of me becoming that person!

Been banded since 2005 and it was the best decision I ever made. Have never reached my goal but happy the way I am. Some day I'll try to lose the rest.

There are people on the yahoo group "Smartbandsters" that have been banded more than 10 yrs.. still doing well.

Also on the DFWBandsters yahoo group are long term successful bandsters.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/SmartBandsters

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/DFWBandsters