KellyC, I know sometimes it's hard to accept yourself. For me, I'm selfconscious about my skin. But some things just have to play themselves out. You shouldn't have to get a a painful surgery that takes years to get used to in order to gain a few inches. 5'6 is NOT short. It may not be the average height for guys, but I don't think your height will affect the way people perceive your character.
I hope you can learn to be happy with yourself!
PS: As a girl, I know that tall guys can be sexy, but in the end, it's just a HUGE neckcrink (from having to lean your head back for kissing).