overweightny

I have been dealing with my weight problem pretty much my entire life. I am a 30 year old man. I have been on this diet and that diet. Some with success and some not. I am currently at 476lbs and am starting to get physical problems. I want to beat this before it beats me. So I have taken the first step and told my physician I am considering the lapband. I have not had my appointment yet with the Bariatric office. I recently found this site and have been reading. I am already feeling scared and apprehensive. Lots of negative reading and horror stuff. Q1- Can anyone that has had the ideal surgery and success give me an overview of what to expect? Q2- What are the rules? What will I never be able to eat? What will I never be able to do? Q3- Do you have any regrets? Q4- What is the financial impact after the surgery? Groceries, supplements, etc.? Thanks to whomever answers. I need to do something life changing before there is no life left and anything is going to be scary. Thanks

Anyone else with some answers or help?