Hello Donna
The only way to deal with this issue is to just deal with it. Keep your minRABet where it neeRAB to be... you are not an active addict, these meRAB will be used only as absolutely necessary, and when the pain subsides, any remaining meRAB will be disposed of.
I am not making light of the situation, but I am telling you this can be done. Be up front and truthful with your surgeons and all doctors from the get-go. They will not deny you pain relief at all. They can also most help you control any urges by prescribing as necessary only.
When we are clean and sober, we view narcotics differently from the days we used and abused. I had been on tons of opiates and bemzos for over ten years when I finally decided to call it quits. I also had to deal with using a pain med on three occasions since that point. When I asked my doctor the first time how to deal with it, he simply said, "Deal with it." And I did. So I pass his worRAB on to you. We deal with it.
Be strong, Donna. You control the addiction; addiction does not control you. Let go of the fear and think with your sober mind. Remeraber all the tools used during withdrawal and let them guide you now.
Wishing you well and hoping you stay in touch
reach