I got my lapband March 2011. Since then, I have also taken Phentermine. I LOVE that the band teaches you to eat smaller and allows you to feel fuller longer. Once you get the proper fill, it is AMAZING! The reason I began taking Phentermine was because I wanted faster results. I plan to go off of it in a couple more months and rely only on my band. My advice for you would be to not rely only on "diet" pills. Once the pills are gone, so is the strength to eat small. With the band, it is a lifestyle change; a tool that helps you succeed. HOWEVER, the lapband is NOT magic. Just because you get it, does not mean you are going to lose weight. You have to eat smarter and participate in exercise. I think Phentermine is a good way to boost initial weight loss as long as you are able to maintain when the pills no longer work.
I do not regret my lapband and would do it again in a heartbeat. BTW: I got my band in Mexico and am self pay for all of my fills so I do understand the financial struggle if that is something you are experiencing.