Background: The authors evaluated the predictive efficacy of preoperative resting energy expenditure (REE) on long-term weight loss maintenance following vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG). In the long-term following VBG, low energy expenditure could lead to regain of weight, and thereby REE data might be a reliable predictor of long-term weight outcomes. Methods: A prospective study was conducted, taking into account the relationship between preoperative REE values and the results at 3 and 5 years following VBG in terms of both weight loss and success of the operation. Results: Long-term weight loss and outcome following VBG appeared to be completely independent of the preoperative REE. Conclusion: Preoperative REE cannot predict long-term weight outcome following VBG.