In Arf Opine, fear of surgery is downright sensible. Don't you dare cut me on purpose and call it, "Minor." I get nervous around people who actually **like** surgery. Masochate much? Please do NOT show me your bag of tricks.

It's been years since I've had surgery, myself, but my front-line response to fear of surgery, mine or anyone else's, is to validate the fear as both natural and wise. It's a big deal. Don't minimize. Extra care before will increase your chances of a successful recovery.

From there, I look for relaxing distractions and pile on lots and lots of extra self-care, both before and after. Emotional support helps allot, too. Vent freely. Vent often.

Gentle support while you ride out the process. Easy does it.

I've been "cut on" several times. I just prayed all would be well after and prayed for the people involved too. It helps to have confidence in the surgeon. Mine was great.

I'm so sorry to hear about your surgery! Maybe focus on how much better you will feel when it is done. If you are nervous, talk to your doctor about your fears. I'm sure you will realize you are not alone. The doctor can go over what you will deal with, how you will feel, and what you can expect.

I've had a couple hernia surgeries (needed one after each child I had), and the anesthesia was very seamless. They even have drugs to block your memory of counting backwards, so when I woke up, I didn't even remember counting backwards! It is a hectic time with everything going on. You will be feeling so much better!

You've taken the important first step in writing this out.

Focus on the ways you are able to calm yourself and use those to help you remember that the pain will change after the surgery and your recovery will be a better balance.

I feel for you, Arfie. Just the thought of surgery terrifies me, when I know logically it really shouldn't ie: removing a gallstone. Like members said above, take care of yourself, think positive about how much better you'll feel afterwards, and talk to your doctor. And breathe! Let us know when your surgery is planned and we'll be sending good energy to you!

Oops, got the name mixed up, my apologies Lillycat and Arfie, I'm still a newbie...

Thank you for all the advice . I think you’ve got to just accept the fear and do it! It’s hard though.

I've had three ear surgeries, one of which was borderline brain surgery. And I've been under anesthesia multiple other times. It is scary, it is a lot to think about and take in. However, you won't remember the actual surgery, and youll be in the best hands possible. Reactions from anesthesia can happen but are usually minor. The hospital will make sure you're ok. Just put your trust in the medical professionals and know that your surgery is worth it. Know that your brief time of discomfort will better your quality of life in the end.

I've only had one surgery, Cesarean (C-Section), when I had my child a few years ago. I started having a panic attack when they were ready to give me the epidural, but my husband talked me through it, and I really didn't have a choice at that point, or I might have changed my mind too! But, in the end, it wasn't that bad, the worst part was feeling that anxiety about it.

The anesthesiologist during my C-Section was fantastic! I thought I was going to get sick and she did something with the medicine and the feeling instantly went away.

It is scary, but think about the end result, how you will feel better and get through it! Maybe it will help to research anesthesiology, knee surgery, and think about how many times your Dr. has done this before, probably a lot! Good luck to you!

That shouldnt be too bad for you, Think of the good that will happen from it.