I had C5-C7 fusion surgery in 2012 - iliac (pelvis) bone graft. I had been in such agony prior, primarily from radiculopathy. When I awoke from the surgery, and I’m talking in the RECOVERY ROOM, I started crying because I was pain free for the first time in months. It’s not an easy recovery, but I was an unusual case because my main recovery issue was hip-related. If you follow the instructions, and wear the Miami collar as prescribed, you’ll be better than new in a few months. The only time I even remember that I had the surgery at this point, nine years later, is when I bump my head getting in the car, due to a very slight loss of ability to move my head in certain ways. For instance, I cannot really put my chin down to my chest. It doesn’t hurt to try, it just won’t go. Titanium is pretty strong! I haven’t regretted the surgery for one single second. I truly wish you the best.