Welcome!
What is the diagnosis you've been given? I'm just wonderin. I may be lookin at surgery as well. Still waitin to hear from my Dr if there might be other options first.
If you do end up needing the surgery, try not to let stark terror set in.
Like Jo*mar said, most things we read on forums are the negative experiences, b/c that's usually when folks reach out to the forums. The majority of people don't really feel the need to come to a forum to post their success story, but it sure is nice when they do!

You've come to a great place for support and understanding!
Caring,
Rae