I've been seeing mixed results, I'm not sure if the followers in the game level as I level. In other words can I go find serana right now, and have her hit level 50 when I do despite me not being level 50? Also I'm on 360. So I have all patches except the unofficial ones. Also if I recruit a follower and the tell them to leave can I use them again and have them jump to my level?

Short answer: Yes, followers level up with you.

Longer answer: Except for a few of them, followers do have a maximum 'cap' that they can level up to, typically between 25-50 depending on the follower. Plenty more details and caveats in this link: http://www.uesp.net/...yrim:Followers?/a>. Note in particular the 'Follower Stats' section and also note that details about each follower (including their maximum level) can be found lower in the link's page.

Hope that helps.

I could kiss you, thanks you so much.

You don't nessasarily have to ditch a character once they reach their max lvl, but you do have to pay attention. Followers are only effected by certain buff's ( and enchants) , so really pay attention to the enchants on the page Acadian linked to. Make sure they have plenty of health potions.

I have had Erik the slayer walking around in Legendary Ebony, while my character is hoofing it in superior Iron. He wasn't over powered, but also wasn't taking a knee every two seconds either. That is what I pay attention to, are they taking a knee? is their health going way low during combat? Time to get them better gear.

That's the way I did it anyway, some people just get the followers that are essential and can't die... though they will take a knee.

I'm just super excited to be able to go and get serana, But I've also equipped followers with heavy enchantment stuff

Serana is a good choice, amazing how so many skyrim fans fell in love with her, i was told fans begged Bethesda to make a dlc letting them marry her.

when you face Harkon give him a right good whoopin, hate that guy.