Fixed braces... how long?

[jem_bob]

Hi all,
I'm 20 years old and have just had fixed braces applied (on Monday) in preparation for surgery to move my lower jaw forward. I hate them so much; they're painful, look hideous and make me feel totally disgusting. To be honest, my teeth are fairly straight, just a few slightly crooked ones on the bottom (which appear to have corrected themselves already) and slightly twisted tooth at the top. I was wondering if anyone has any idea how long they will be on for, some people say 2 years, but I know for a fact that I can't even put up with them for 1! I know that without looking you can't make an informed decision, and I should be asking my orthodontist this, but i'm not due to go back until the beginning of April. I need some idea now, just to keep me sane!
Please help, they're driving me mad! I just need a light at the end of the tunnel to keep me going.

[jem_bob]

Thanks Mr XLA, things are improving already. I've started to accept them now really, and I know they're for a good cause. Went out and about on Friday night and no one even mentioned them, which is a great relief to such a self-conscious person. I am due to go back in April, so will ask my orthodontist then, how long they are expected to stay on. It's really encouraging to see that the 4 teeth at the front on my lower jaw have already pretty much straightened in less than a week. At least I know it's working! The situation you described is exactly right, I just couldnt remember the terminology. I've bought some Aloclair and Anbesol (think that's what it's called) which are both helping with the chaffing and ulcers. Mr XLA, I know you can't see it, so can't really give an informed answer... however roughly how long would it take to straighten the top right tooth which is slightly twisted? As this is the only tooth that has a problem, all the others are absolutely fine 9in my opinion). Thanks everyone else for your advice too!