[Good luck with the surgery. I felt the same way and was in almost the same situation. I'm a little older 49, but the pre surgery was similar. I am now 6 weeks post surgery. I only wore a hard collar for a few days and then a soft collar. Good luck with the wait. I was glad that once I made the decision I only waited 2 weeks, but that was my choice. Look at the site for what you would have prior to surgery and what to expect with recovery. They are very helpful.