Hi KathKeb, I remember you even with no pic I think, your an OB nurse like me?  Or maybe NICU? I did in my research definitely find the manufacturer statement that is not meant for life, I also have a realize band, not sure if there is a difference in the life span but I doubt it is much. 

You need to check FB for failed lap band groups there are a few private ones that have info and files with all kinds of information regarding surveys and studies but I don't know how to link you to them, sorry. We were all lied to back in the early 2000's.

Did you tell the new surgeon what is going on because this is very serious! You could very easily have a slipped band or erosion not to mention the aspiration pneumonia from the acid at night. My band damaged me so badly that even a year after removal I have acid 24/7 and still trying to figure out how to stop that! The longer this goes on the worse the long term damage is going to be so if you can get in even a few days sooner I would go for it. I pray he is knowledgable enough about the band that he gets you in to remove it right away because it will no doubt have to come out. Best wishes to you!

why do you owe anyone an answer of what kind of surgery you are having? Tell them it is personal,period,or tell them nothing.

Well, I would not outright lie and make up a different surgery.

I only took 6 days off work .... Friday for surgery and then the following week.  It was vacation.

I lost weight at a slow but stead rate and told people that I was eating less and moving more which we're both true.

I went back to Weigh****chers at about a month after surgery, for support and fellowship.  By that time, I was losing about 2-3 pounds per week, which was not outside the norm for a person of my starting weight.

Be prepared for people to notice, and ask how you are doing it ..... Usually, I just said, "thanks, I feel great" and changed the topic.

Once you tell one person, you have told everyone ..... You can always tell, but you can never 'Un-tell'.