Want2behealthy

I am scheduled for lap band surgery in a few days but my family and friends keep telling me I'm not heavy enough to need surgery. I've only been on the pre-op diet for 5 days and I've already lost 8lbs. I started out at 203 and now weigh 195. The starting weight amounts I'm seeing on most posted msgs vary from 250-300+ lbs. Did anyone else start out in the low 200's? To me 200lbs on my 5'01 body is definitely unhealthy. Not much support from friends and family who say "of course the doctor says you need it, they need to make money". I've been thinking about Lap band for over a year and have read plenty of good and bad reviews. I think I'm having doubts now or is it just regular pre surgery jitters?

The thought of losing weight and getting healthy are GREAT but does anyone else have the same fears that I do? What will be the long term effects of my band? Will the band eventually erode into my stomach as I age? Do I still want to be maintaining a band when I'm in my 60's or 70's? Since i'm not going through my insurance any future problems or complications will be out of my pocket. It's scary.....

So do any of you know if the band can just stay unfilled in your body after 15-20 years or would it have to be removed?

I only told my immediate family and 2 close friends. I don't want people at work to know because they can be so judgmental. My heart does tell me yes and my husband is my best supporter. Thanks so much for the replies!!!!