Had it 7 years ago and never thought it was all that painful, though gas pain can be a beast at times for a while. Hurts in the shoulders. However it’s a journey for a few months for most people. Highs and lows. I had dehydration issues, low blood pressure, times I thought I broke the sleeve and on and on. But 7 years later all is well and I’ve kept off 63 of the 85 pounds I lost. It could be all 85 but the surgery was on my stomach not my brain. Stomach sends right message but brain sometimes ignores. None of it is easy but it’s sure easier than trying to do it all on your own.