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Good for you to go ahead with the surgery. I had no problems at all except food getting stuck which was my fault.

Good job on doing your own research and asking your Dr. questions.. No matter what anyone else says or experiences you have to worry about you. The dramatic posts are a cry for attention and perhaps they feel some kind of pleasure in scaring people.. but everything in life has risks, but I figured my health was worth a risk.. Take care and keep us posted.

I just turned 65. I was banded when I was 61. I have had my band for 3 1/2 years. I had wanted some kind of surgery for years, but had neither researched it, nor heard of lapbanding. I was never, too, self conscious until I was too heavy for one of the tables at a medical center, and they had to send me to another center which had a table for over 250 lbs. Then I was embarrassed! I was ready, too because of my arthritis and high blood pressure. Welcome to lapband!

Very well spoken post! I'm so glad you have taken it upon yourself to not only do the homework but talk to your doctor. If more people were as smart about this as you are, there would be lot less band failures and ignorance. As far as the scary threads and "you're doomed, doomed I tell you!" posters: Just remember, it's sad but misery loves company and ignorance isn't bliss. The ignorant won't be happy until they've made everyone as miserable as they are.

Congratulations!! You're doing wonderful!!

Arlene - Mazel Tov on your great success! Yes, I said GREAT success. As you said, everyone is very different with their overall program, and it's so important not compare yourself to anyone else. Just focus on your own achievements; for which you've had many. Happy Bandiversary :-)

welcome to the dark side...bwuahahahah

wow so you have concerns about being 45.. lol wish I was only 45 again.. but my daughter reminds me that every day is a gift.. She treats terminal cancer patients every day.. so when I whine about getting old or whatever she brings me back to what is really important in life.. and if you can even wear a bikini you are 90 % luckier than most of us.. I will never be able to wear another bikini.. too old for one thing and too flabby for another.. gravity is a b...so you go strut yourself on the beach and enjoy..

Nwww happy birthday, my friend. And you know what I think: that at 45, you are still one of the most beautiful women I know. And you have a rockingest bikini body! But I understand the insecurity about it, because I've been there. It's taking that first step, put on that bikini and step out onto that sand, and I promise you, no one is going to laugh at you. In fact, they're going to think you're beautiful, just as much as I do!

Girl, I've seen your pictures and you are rocking that bikini! Just put a smile on your pretty face and own it! Happy Birthday!