life expectancy of implant for lap band surgery

Question
I want very much to get lap band surgery either with the equipment made by the Lap Band company or the Realize company.  I overheard someone at the weight loss seminar say that the implant does not last forever, that it has to be replaced at some point.  Is this true for both company's products?  What is the life expectancy for the implant?

Answer
Dear Bvcxnet,
For both manufacturers, the Band is designed to last for life.  The materials used are completely non-reactive with the body tissues, so they do not degrade over time.

It is possible for the tubing to kink or break, and for the balloon to leak, in rare cases with either manufacturer.  However, this type of mechanical failure is very uncommon and there is no planned replacement or "expiration date" for either Band.

Best wishes,
Dr JP

1. Prev:life expectancy of implant used in lap band surgery
2. Next:advice on which surgery to get