I wish I could offer experience with the surgery and other issues - but not much help there - but am sure you will get all the info you can first and sending you the best...

I do have a friend that had her thyroid taken out in her early 20's/ was immediately identified as cancer and caught totally by chance while at the doc for another reason - she had it taken out - then went thru about a week in the hospital taking oral radiation (was some years ago) that did make her very sick for a few days - shes fine now almost 20 years later but is dependent on her thyroid med daily....

So the trick for you, if surgery necessary I know - is the right balance to prepare before and after to deal with any conflicts in your body ... we're certainly got the right group here to help...

Hang in there..... and again, sending very good wishes for your doctors and you to be able to make the best decision.....