5 years ago i made the biggest decision of my life and decided to get lap banding. My weight before my surgery went from 58kg to 127kgs. I could lose weight with a strict diet, diet tablets and exercise program but always put the weight on again. This yoyo dieting was more damaging to my health then any procedure i could have taken. After consultation with my specialist (oh by the way i had phsyican, hematologist and local Gp) I decided to go ahead with this procedure. I would never look back. I am now at goal weight and have managed to maintain this for 3.5 years. i play sport, walk and eat reasonable healthy (not going to lie and say health all the time). i no longer have medical problems and am happy for my appearance, I do suffer from reflux but only in the last 6 months. Lap banding is not for everyone and requires dedication and will power to stick to the healthy restricited life style. People that had the procedure with me have not had the same success and some have had the band removed. BUT for me it was the best thing that could have happen. 5 years later i am healthy, fit and feel fantastic. if anyone has any questions for me I am happyto answer them for you.:smile::thumbup::sad::thumbup: