good for you man, i had to end up paying out-of-pocket for the surgery but oh well. by now youve figured out that yes, i had it done so let me address your questions.
1. i had the procedure done on july 13th. (friday the 13th yes i know) im actually scheduled for another follow up visit tomorrow to the doc where he will tell me that i will no longer be forced to wear that horrible horrible invention known to us people as "the compression vest." worst feeling ever to have that thing on but ill get on with the post...
i am still recovering and was able to resum chest training this past week, about 3 weeks after surgery. i was able to train most other bodyparts, but couldnt really do to many overhead exercises like pull downs of military presses. now i just gotta lose the 5 pounds of fat i put on while sitting around the house eating and not moving.
2. it was real painful for the first few days, but on that third magical day when the doc pulled out the drains and i was able to take a shower, i felt 110% better. from then on pain got a little better everyday. scars still are sensitive a bit but that can be expected. also, im allergic to aspirin and related meds so i couldnt take any antiinflammatories. if you can, they will aid in your recovery. hope this helps.