Hi M Striver, I am Bob 42, 5foot 10 inches and at 353 in June 2007. I NEEDED the band. I got it in Toronto, it is not covered by government insurance (O.H.I.P) paid $15,000. on Aug 7 I was banded. I am now 284 pounds. I am happy. It reminds me not to buy "bad" foods and I can not over eat like I used to(whole pizzas and daily 5 litres of pepsi. It is a wonderful tool to help. I highly suggest it to anyone in need.
Good luck to you ,Bob