So....you don’t mention any complications post-op. If you didn’t have any, you are extremely lucky; however, not having had them, you neither have the gratitude that comes from them finally going away.
Embarrassed? Who gives a $&*# about being embarrassed? Sooner or later you’ll realize that other people are not worth getting embarrassed about something over. If you learn that lesson earlier rather than later because of your valve tick, it’ll be a good thing. Not to mention you can sort right out of your life any idiots who think it matters. (I doubt there will be many, though.)
stand on your own! Own it! Think for yourself! If someone that you LIKED who was strong and resilient had a tick, would you mind? Or would you get over yourself? Life is short. Don’t waste time on inessentials.
When I look back on the times I was embarrassed in my life, I realize there was nothing to be embarrassed about at all. It was all an incredible waste of anxiety when I should’ve been focusing on just having fun, following my interests, having the confidence to find nice people to spend time with...
Also, the only people I really remember from high school were the ones who were unique. Thanks to this, you’ve got that covered.
Having said that, if you wore a tank top to school every day for a couple weeks, I’m sure in that time everyone would *find a way* to move on. Even you.