I'm considering the lap band. how risky is the procedure?

Quite: There are several complications include band shift, band erosion (where it breaks through the wall of the esophagus/stomach), and pain. This is a very high risk procedure that does not have the same benefits long term of a gastric bypass (roux-en-y) procedure or others. Don't get fooled into thinking it will resolve all of the problems.

Low risk procedure: Lap band is a low risk procedure, with regards to potential for surgical complications. It requires strict patient compliance with diet restrictions post op for success. Unlike gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, it is less successful for overall weight loss and resolution of medical problems related to obesity, i.e. Diabetes. In committed patients it works well.