Well 2 years ago i got down to a size 4 altogether i lost 220 pounds. was throwing up everyday and just getting sicker went to er room did blood work my posstess levels were dangerously low they said if i hadn't gone in that night i would have died. had to have the band taken out it was killing me. as a result of the band coming out where the port was i had a massive hernia had to go to houston to get fixed.. yes i have gained some of the weight back but i would rather be fat and alive than skinny and dead i have kids to raise by myself so there was no opition but to take it out..... it sucks but i don't care anymore it does bother me sometimes but it is really nice to go out to eat and not throw up or walk around to make the food go down and i can eat what i want. my health is still trying to get back on track but all my blood work came out excellant and my blood pressure is awesome right now so i will take it one day at a time. i thought about putting another one in or doing something else the doctors ask me if i wanted it but i was skin an bones at the time dying and i have had so many surgery's and bowl obstructions i am scared to mess with any of it. oh well maybe one day but not worried about. good luck to everyone just remember go to the doctor if you have a problem i know believe me i know i didn't want to gain the weight back but my kids needs me and that is all that matters they love me regardless.