I had the same fears you have. I worried about everything that could and might go wrong. I even was afraid I would die from the surgery. I have had only 2 surgeries in my life and I am 50. Both were c-sec from child birth and I had to do it. This has been the best thing I have ever done for myself. It was not a big deal....the only real pain I had was from the gas. I feel great and now I don't overeat, and I don't want to.
I had to self pay $15,000. It took all our savings but it will save my life.
As you get older and go through menopause the weight will go up and up. I didn't no if it would stop or if I was going to be a 500lb woman. My best advice is to find a good Dr. and one that does this type of surgery only, call his office and talk to a nurse. I talked to several nurses at first and I could tell if the Dr. had some experience or alot. I wanted someone that could do lapband in his sleep. Take baby steps until you feel comfortable. It took me a year to finally do it but now I am so happy I did it.