I had 200 lbs to lose when I got my band 2 1/2 years ago. I wish I had gotten the bypass then, but I was too afraid. I have lost and maintained 100 lbs with the band but I have had problems with the band for almost 2 years. I also realized that I was never going to get to my goal unless I had a malabsorptive aspect because I love to eat and you can get around the restrictiveness of the band with ice creams and chips and other junk foods. I got to the points were I couldn't eat any rice, pasta, bread, meat, fruit or veggies without it getting stuck and causing me severe pain and vomiting. I feel like when I get the bypass I will be able to eat a better variety of food to keep myself healthy.
Danielle