400 lbs...will surgery even help me?

I've been concerned that most of the people who have surgery are not as big as me.  I wonder if at this point anything would make a diffrence.  I also don't want to get the wrong one.  There are so many surgeries to choose from!  My brother had the lap band and lost 200 lbs but I don't think I would be as successful with that.  If I am going to do this, then I need to make it worth it.  I also don't want to do this if the effects only last for a year.  I heard that the effect last only one year and then you go back to normal.  I understand that it's just a tool and you have to work at it but if the tool only lasts one year then I don't know.

At your starting weight, I hope you carefully consider the DS, not just the band and RNY. The DS has THE highest success rates for those with a starting BMI of 50+ AND the best statistics for keeping the weight off long term. Check out the DS board on here and www.dsfacts.com for more info.

WLS certainly could help you.  It is true that you can "eat around" any surgery but it certainly gives us a much better chance of losing weight.  The tool lasts longer than a year.  Check out the DS, and see if you are a candidate, it has the highest success rate with higher bmi people.  Also, check out the BMI over 50 forum:

http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/bmi_over_50/

Heck ya.  I was 403, and it's been a long journey, but more than worth it.  You have to remain persistent, hard to watch those that only have 100 lbs to lose, but yes, you can do it.

Bonnie

My surgery weight was 426, I've lost 116 pounds since.

 At your BMI, the DS would be a good fit for the amount you would like you lose.  My starting weight was 334 and so far I am really enjoying this surgery.  I eat like a 'normal' person.  I can still eat most of the foods I loved before surgery, although I mus****ch my carb and sugar intake.  I do not dump or vomit.  I have had no sadness with this surgery because I do not feel deprived.  I feel free.  Come over to the DS board.  They are great about answering any questions you have. ~GG
www.obesityhelp.com/forums/ds/a,messageboard/board_id,5357/

I know what you mean. I was 441 pounds, and I was a hope-to-die  foodaholic. I was addicted to being stuffed with food.  I never thought it would be possible to lose the weight, but I am 185 pounds today. That's 256 pounds lost. There are many of us who started over 400 pounds and have been successful.
Best wishes, Yehuda.

I agree with the posters who suggested you look into the Duodenal Switch procedure.  My surgeon's group said that people with higher BMI's have a better chance of success with it long term.

Also, remember to check what your insurance covers. Some only cover a couple of the types, unless you plan on paying for it out of pocket. Many have appealed the insurance companies and won the appeal. In the end it is all worth the fight you put into it.
Kelly/tink

 I started off at 460 lbs.  Currently at 228 and still loosing.  Yes, it will help, but like the others have said, it is only a tool.  You still have to make a lifestyle change and incorporate exercise to your life.

You can check out my journey at www.roytyson.com

ROY