I had my IUD removed approx. 4 weeks ago. (Thank God)
My strings were not visible upon removal. However, I was lucky and they were able to locate the strings using some sort of tweezer like instrument. I had no anesthesa and it was not painful at all. It actually hurt alot more having it inserted. I had alot of trouble after it was removed. I bled for 8 days, heavily, and I had alot of fluctuations in my hormaones. I was a complete mess for a couple of weeks. Now, I feel like me.
I hope this helps.
When you do get it removed just relax and put yourself in your "happy place" (like the beach in Hawaii :)) You will be fine