yes they will shave a good wide patch .
there is a sticky up top that explains the surgery.here is the link.
the one who posted it was pain free for 5 years .I had contact with her just last week and sadly the pain has returned but she is getting some relief with the meds .
here is the link about MVD its up top here
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/thread2052.html

LOL I am female too and just cut my hair short 2 weeks ago cus it is sooo hot here. I even took a pic of my hair cut and if you click on my name and go to my profile page you can see me with my new hair cut
I will be keeping you in my prayers and positive thoughts for your surgery to go well and help take away the pain.
let us know how things go and if you have any questions PLEASE ask... there are LOTS of people here who have gone threw MVD.

PEACE
BMW