So when I was researching about the lap band all I found was positive informaiton. I never saw anything about the feeling of food stuck in your throat, or the constipation, constant shoulder and back pain, or abdominal pains. Then I have the surgery and had all of that. I was banded on 9/19/11. first had the initial fill removed 2 weeks later and still had the same problems. I was having so many different issues and having a hard time dealing with the pain and depression. The final straw was when my children sat me down and had one of the hardest talks I think they ever had. They told me that they wanted their Mom back. That I wasn't the same happy go lucky, fun to be around person anymore. I had the band removed 10/21/11 and I am now back to 'normal'. It was immediate. All of the issues I had were gone. During my month with the band I lost 25 lbs and it is still off, plus a couple more. While I applaud those of you who have had success I realize that the band is not for everyone. Some people's bodies just aren't cut out to accept it. The one good thing that I learned was what a portion looks like. I don't think I ever ate a portion in my life. I think I ate a family size portion for everything. Good luck to all of you who have had the band and had success.