Newbie and scared

I have had bad headaches all of my life, sometimes with auras and light sensitivity and nausea. I had sinus surgery twice because my frontal headaches were so bad. My PCP put me on meds but it wasn’t helping so I went to a neurologist. The neurologist discovered the chiari and sent me to a neurosurgeon. The neurosurgeon said he needed to do more tests. I tried to ask questions but he wanted the test first. I went back last Thursday and my chiari is 18mm and he wants to do surgery sooner than later. I have headaches, tingling in my hands, my feet as always cold, I’ve always been clumsy, but I’m not sure if it’s chiari or just the way I am. He says mine is an 8/10 and I’m taking a risk if I wait for the surgery. Does anyone have any insight? I’m getting a second opinion Thursday. I’m 43 and don’t want to risk my health, but will it help? It’s major surgery.