tattoo'd girl

I'm in the process of deciding if I want to go thru w getting the lap band procedure. As its looking, I have a dr & aprx date of when I could do it, but thing is....I'M PETRIFIED!! I've researched & read until my eyes are crossing! Right now I'm at 180lbs, which is my heaviest. I wasn't this big when I was pregnant. I'm normally around 130lbs. But the past few years have been like h#@% on my body. I had 3 major surgeries w/in a yrs time & it has wreaked havoc on my body. I have always had curves (I'm not the barbie doll type) & I'd like to keep them,...just have them somewhat like they used to be. So, I guess what I'm asking is "am I doing the right thing by having it done" & "is it possible to regain your former shape by doing it" & "does anyone regret having it done"?? I don't want to make a mistake in any of this...it is an important decision. If any of you can help....I'd greatly appreciate it!!