From one George to another, "You have found a great place to ask questions."
I have a neo bladder, one year old, and I have never has to self cath. I may be unusual in this, so others may chime in with their stories. My only complications are incontinence and ED. I did have the nerve sparing surgery and am just now, one year later, just getting the feeling back.
My advice is nothing new, but it makes sense.
1) Make damn sure you have a POSITIVE attitude, it makes ALL the difference
2) Make sure your surgeon is an assembly line worker who has done hundreds of these procedures. Also make sure you are very Positive about him or her. If you feel as though he is treating you as a number, stand up for yourself and let him know you are a valued human being, and have a lot to do in your life!
3) Get to know your anestheisiologist. This person may be as important as your surgeon. Make sure they get all of your history and don't lie to them
4) Keep your family in the loop. Remember they are suffering right along with you. They want to help, let them.
5) Be a little selfish for yourself, but remember to be realistic. Your friends will want to be invilved too.
Your surgeon will give you his opinion, You will ask question, talk it over. Make it an informed decision.
The inconvenient things that happen will become a part of your daily routine. A good attitude will get you through this.
George