It's true, that not all surgeons want to go through the training necessary to do lapbands; and often have their own preferences. For my part, I researched the band several years before it was approved in the US, took another two years to get approved, had it removed after a slip, and had it put in again after two years. That was a year ago, and I still find every day a 'process.' I never went to a seminar, but was absolutely sure about my decision. It is a tool and has helped me lose a total of 75 pounds. I have heard of no reason to have it removed unless there is a problem.