I had 1/2 my Thyroid removed in FEb 09. I was very nervous, but my doc was so positive it was the right thing to do because of ThYroid Cancer in my family.
I had no postoperative problems at all. I could talk and was not terribly sore or hoarse. My doc said my paparthyroid glands were "right there" where he could see them and not damaged at all.
I was better than ever the first 3 months post op.
The I slowly developed symptoms of thyroid disease. I have a cyst remaining on the other side that is stable for now, but may be contributing to the hypo. My doc tested me and said we are starting meds NOW.
I think you should totally relax about the surgery. If 1/2 is removed you may be fine with one side working. But if not, they can put you on meds. It is easily fixed.
It is not always the right thing to leave a large nodule in. Mine was causing coughing and Choking! Inexplicably, my allergies are almost gone now that the growth is gone.