I'm only a month out, so I can't answer all of your questions. I will say, though, that I had many of the same concerns. To be quite honest, the first week after surgery is really rough. All I wanted was to eat regular food. Once that passes, though, you'll be much more concerned with getting enough liquid, protein, and nutrients. You won't be thinking about the things you're "missing out on" because you'll have plenty else to think about. Honestly, it's hard, harder than I expected, but it's so, so worth it.

i have the same concerns, but I finally made up my mind that i can either live life in pain and discomfort or I can so something about it. From all my research, the pro's of the surgery far outweigh the con's (except the whole "worse possible outcome" part - but that is SO rare).
Good luck w/your decision.

I am happy with my decision and I can tell you as drastic as it may seem, knowing what to do and doing it is the chasm that, in my 58 years has been impossible. For the first time in my life I am not thinking about food, overeating food, feeling guilty. I eat under normal, but I also leave food on my plate like normal people and have a cue that tells me I've had too much. In the long term, I think most of your questions will be a non-issue. You can have everything you want - you just won't be able to have much of it. Good luck in whatever decision you make.

I wish i would have had it done 12 years ago, thats 12 years i cant get back. I am very happy i had it done and would do it over and over and over again.

Also, i bought me some um smaller child like plates or salad plate except mine have dividers. So i can be sure i am getting a good bit of different food that i like and need but i dont have to worry about over filling my plate with food i wont eat. My daughter is still telling me sometimes mom you know you wont eat that much.