Hi Reidgirl,
I know it can be very scary before LIS when you see so many having trouble. I felt the same way before my surgery. It was very discouraging. You have to focus on the positive and believe that will be you. I am very, very happy with my surgery results. I didn't have a bumpy road.
There are many older post on here where boardies had the same results as I. I believe my results are not uncommon. As others have told me before, you will typically see people who are having trouble or bumpy recoveries to post in these forums. People who heal and do well typically disappear or don't post at all.
Another boardie (SmallChange) kept telling me he thought I'd be pleasantly surprised and I was! Cheryl who started this board had success with this surgery.
I know it can be difficult to see positive when you are afraid, but it really is a successful surgery. You have to ask yourself if living with the fissure is any quality of life.
Mine wasn't and I wanted to get better. I have felt better since day one after my surgery. I am sure there are many others who have had the same results.
Don't be afraid, Reid. It was the best decision I made with my fissure. I could still kick myself in the butt for waiting 8 months to get it over with.