@dadkins I'm not sure what videos you have seen where people are crying out in terrible pain during spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implantation, but the procedure is performed under general anesthesia. In particular, for the trail the leads are inserted but you wear the battery externally on a belt. I was able to continue working remotely during my trial. The permanent implant is of course more invasive since the battery is implanted. I was out of work for 1 to 2 weeks for my permanent SCS implantation.
Your concern about being thin is valid. I am also thin (BMI = 20) and the outline of the battery is clearing visible at the implant site. Mine is implanted in my flank, but you may have the option to have it placed elsewhere. If you have it placed in your flank, I would recommend placing it on the side you don't sleep on if you're a side sleeper.