ANA Discussion Forum
Post-Treatment => Post-Treatment => Topic started by: millie on October 15, 2012, 06:06:41 pm
-
My translab will occur at NYU on WEdnesday October 17th...my 65th birthday and a new beginning for me. I get the time of surgery tomorrow.Iam anxious to be on the other side!
We will be spending tomorrow night at a hotel two blocks from the hospital for easy access.
I am very hopeful this will all go well. When we have progress to post, either my daughter Jen or me will share on this thread.....Peace to you all. Thank you for your prayers and support.
Your friend, Millie
-
Praying for a successful surgery!! I know things will go well for you!! I will be watching for updates!
Hugs (( ))
Glenda
-
Many prayers are with you... Your in great hands @ NYU Medical Center. Here is to a speedy recovery! All the best, Mickey
-
Hi Millie! I did not forget you! My surgery (retrosigmoid) was September 25th today is my 3 weeks post op. Soon you will be on this side of it and recuperating! All the best to you! You are in my thoughts and prayers! Keep us posted. (I had my daughter do it for me =)
Oh and HAPPY BIRTHDAY for tomorrow too!
-
Happy early birthday and our prayers and best wishes for a successful speedy surgery tomorrow! Look forward to hearing from you soon,, Jane
-
Good luck! Wishing you a speedy recovery!
-
Millie,
Thinking of you.
Miranda
-
Millie,
Praying that everything is going well with you.
-
Just wondering how Millie is doing? Her surgery was scheduled for October 17th ? Plus it was her birthday too. Prayers and thoughts are with you Millie.
-
Dear Millie,
How did surgery go for you? I want you to know that I have started a Prayer Warriors call for you and that a lot of people are praying for you. Answer when you can. Rest my ANA NYC chapter friend we will see each other soon enough.
Mike
PS. Happy Birthday! What a strange way to celebrate, although I can appreciate your starting a new life, certainly!
-
Hi all-This is my first post since the event on October 17th.As you know, I had translab at NYU on October 17th. This is the first day I felt I could post-came home Sunday and today actually sat up all day in a chair trying to watch movies out of eye and drinking prune juice.
My surgery was at Langone, and I believe lasted four hours. The tumor was the sticky kind, shaped like a sausauge and started to adhere to the facial nerve. I believe they removed all the tumor. I have a great numbnessin my skull, plusmy left ear is completely numb, and my eyelid and mouth are droopy. I hope this is temporary as the kids might get scared of grandma.The first two days were rough because my head was wrapped lke the rings of saturn and I could not sleep comfortably.I believe I had an excellent team and very good care. BUt now, I'd like my head to be normal-no hearing, just not full and numb and fuzzy. Is this a waiting game we can win? So far, no bad headaches and for them I take extra strength tylenol. And the steriods which end tomprrow.
Thank you prayer warriors! Will it get better?
-
Millie it will get better.You are way ahead of my recovery all ready. My surgery was one year ago and I am back golfing,boating,and enjoying life. Keep the faith and be patient.God Bless You Dave
-
Millie,
Congratulations on getting the surgery behind you. Now you are on the journey of recovery. I'm at 14 weeks post-op today. Things do get better. It just takes time and everyone is different. One of my co-workers told me yesterday that instead of looking forward for things to get better, I should look back at the progress I've made so far. That was a very good suggestion and one I will try to adhere to. I have to admit that there have been days where I feel down about it. I have to remind myself of the positives.
Get some rest. Good luck in your recovery. Prayers...
Lisa
-
Thank you! You give me hope. I will try to remember all the good things that have occurredand put it in God's hands. Each day will be better.
Still fullheaded. Scalp mostly num on left side. Ear numb. Glad it is out though! Prayer warriors unite. Millie
-
So glad to see you are doing ok. :) I put it in gods hands from the beginning and I know that is why I have done so well. I also have some of the facial paralysis but it seems to slowly be getting better. I am in VT (balance therapy -outpatient couple times a week for my balance and they are working with me for my head and neck pain. (how is your balance, did they give you a script for therapy?) I also have the fuzzy headedness, doctor says that is normal, and the numbness is normal too that you have, I have that also, but that is slowly going away in places. The most important thing is that you are a postie now and are at home recuperating! And you have put it in Gods hands its gonna be ok. Take care and keep us posted on your progress.
-
From the neck down I am feeling well. I was able to watch a little tv with basically one eye today-the one on the good side. First time I could focus to concentrate on the screen for a while.
I did shampoo today and I had been afraid but the nurse practitioner said it would be good to do and no problems there with baby shampoo. Wish I could condition to get out the knots but I will stay away from incision area anyway. Does any one know about conditioning-I may need to to get the stitches out.
I think my vision must be a little off-but I am mostly preoccupied with the fullheadedness because that was why I had the surgery vs the radiaiton-I wanted the thing out that was filling my head with the feeling. My doctors have been good about emailing me that I am experiencing nothing unusual.
As for dizziness I would say I would be walking more if my head didn't feel so full. But tomorrow may be better. Maybe I am getting better because I am getting antsy.
Drinking prune juice eating oatmeal fruit pastafagiole soup roast beef sandwiches no probs there.
Thank you everyone and that is my update for tonight.
-
Today pretty much same as yesterday. Worried about hurricane...supposed to get stittches out Monday. Gnite all. Millie
-
Thank you to all you dear ones who encourage and strengthen with your words of wisdom and sharing. Thanks for saying it does get better and the fullheadedness are normal. I can wait. Patience and time. Stay positive. Listening to you...Millie
-
Hi Millie, just read your other posts. I have had that full headedness and you are right it does affect you when you are doing your walking but what I am finding out from my therapist is that the muscles that were stretched or cut in my neck and on my skull are causing it in addition to being in that position in surgery so long that is why they are concentrating not only on my balance but also working on my neck muscles. I have neck exercises to do at home too, it helps but ends up giving me headaches too. But the neck muscles give me headaches anyway. As for your incision I too was told to only use baby shampoo, no conditioner, my hair is not knotted now, was in the beginning but I miss using a conditioner. When I went and had my staples taken out I asked at the time if I could put anything on the incision and was told no just to keep it clean, so I still keep washing it and my hair with baby shampoo for now. I still have problems with my eye, still have some facial paralysis on my right side (where the tumor was) It has been slowly getting better, but I end up using alot of eyedrops and dribbling my food at times. But told that will get better with time. Just remember you will get better each and everyday, it is very important tho to walk several times a day to get your strength back and of course to avoid blood clots, so even if I feel lousy I still make myself do it. Prayers and thoughts go out to you, its going to be alright!
-
What kind of eye drops do people use - OTC or rx.
-
Thank you DEbra for the advice on the fullheadedness-it is so frustrating. Bless you folks on this forum! No one mentioned neck exercises yet-but don't worry, I walk all around the house and I walked around it too today-neck down is easy and I am getting a little restless. I cleaned out two kitchen drawers today.
Am using Refresh liquigel drops all day and the REfresh lacti lube cream/ointment at night. This was given to me in the hospital, Blags. Hope that helps.
Still have facial droop. Have a good night, guys.
Mil
-
Hey Mil,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. You have been through a lot this past year. May the Lord comfort you today.
Love, Bobette
-
Thanks Bobette! And you, too.
My update for today:
My body feels good. I dare to say each day is better.
My head (left side) still feels numb although I think it lessens a teeny bit each day. Feels full, which has got to be the stitches and stuff they did inside.
I am not missing my hearing (left side) so much maybe I had already adapted. Using eye drops and gel too at night. Sleeping better at night. Physically more comfortable and strong.
Bracing for the hurricane. We are high up 600' north of L.I. sound, but highly wooded. If power goes out it is out for days. Will not be going to NYC to get stitches out tomorrow.
Let's all pray to stay safe during the storm and that it is not as bad as they predict.
God bless you all.
Mil
-
Blags, I use over the counter eye drops and at times eye gel, REFRESH is the name. I actually started using for my eye before surgery because it was dry and a little numb feeling. Afterwards I have been using it everyday for my right eye, sometimes in the begining post op I would use the gel at night. Sounds like I am using what Millie is using too. :)
Millie and others in the bulleseye of Hurricane Sandy, be safe everyone, we are facing it here too in South Jersey. Faith in God will get us through this. ;D
-
Millie and debraclark,,
Just sending prayers and best wishes to all of you in the path of Hurricane Sandy ,, hoping you don't get as much damage as is predicted,,,,but it is a large, strong storm so heed advice for evacuations,, nothing to play around with,, take this time after preparations to relax and heal,,, just know our prayers are with you ,,,, update us as you can,,, we care,,, peace and God's blessings,,,Jane
-
A last post, maube, for a while...yesterday, after a lot of talking (well, I was listenong) and little kids whining about how they were not hungry) except for their dessert) my ear started to reverberate but it had done that before. The numbness see,s changing...Idaresay the full headedness is one percent better. I do not have pain for whicj I jave been given either extra strength tylenol or percoset. if needed.
Every day, something is a little better. I was told it is a process and maybe I am starting to believe...
I called doctor's office in NYC-they are closed two days and no surgeries till Wed all the transportation has been shut down and a state of emergency has been declared. So I don't have to worry about that! I was told the stitches could wait, anyway.
In this part of LI, while we are close to the Sound, we are very high up pand big bluffs occur between the sound and where the houses start so no worries. Just trees and outages. Looks like Brigdeport and Cooneccticut side may have trouble.
Thank you all and God blessus all.
Millie
-
You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I am so glad you are on the other side. How are you now?
karen
-
Millie,
Hoping you are doing better and have come through the storm with minimal damage,, our prayers are with you and all who are dealing with the aftermath,, update us as you can ,,we care about your recovery ,, Jane
-
Alabamajane, We faired pretty well with the storm in our neighborhood while major parts of our state are devastated. Shore points are beyond devastation, up north jersey it seems they took the brunt of it too. I did alot of praying and thank God we were spared. I feel so bad for all those people that were not :( But the storm and its barometric pressure played with my balance and gave me such headaches. But from reading from others I was not the only one. Take care and thank you for your concern.
-
Hi everyone!
First of all, thanks for your support and prayers! Where would we be without those kindnesses?...
Last night we got power back. On Friday, having been without power, heat or light since Monday night, we went to my daughter's. How wonderful to take a shower, be warm, get your own cup of tea.
While we have the power outages still, we have not the devastation of the Jersey shore, Long BEach, Breezy Point. NYU, the wonderful hospital where I had my surgery the 17th was evacuated when the backup generators failed due to the hurricane. However, I was able to speak with my doctors SAturday and this WEdnesday am taking a bus in to NYC to meet with Dr. Roland in an alternate location. My sister-in-law took out my stitches(on his advice) this past SAturday(she is a nurse.) There is some sort of patch back there but he will see that Wednesday.
My face is still droopy but the family says it is better. My left eye seems to be tearing a lot today . I have no pain and I am not even taking extra strength Tylenol. I am great from the neck down- I am still numb in spots of my head, and my upper ear lobe and of course where the incision is but I think I am a teeny bit better each day. Still feel full in upper left head but is it maybe clearing a teensy bit? Still using drops and eye gel faithfully.
Looking forward to seeing Doctor Roland Wednesday. I had great care at NYU. Though communication was disrupted at NYU due to the storm, as soon as they could, my doctors and staff responded withemail with advice and support.
(Doctors Roland and Golfinos) What the doctors and staff and patients experienced during that storm must have been akin to a battlefield.
Thanks guys and that is my update for tinight.
Millie
-
Wow! You've had so much to deal with! Thanks for the update. It sounds like you are doing well. Hurrah!!!!!
Karen
-
Way to go Millie! So happy to hear your recovering well. Best wishes, Mickey
-
Debbie, AlabamaJane, Karen, and everyone-how are you doing?
Debbie, like you, I have the dribbling issue at times if I don't purse my mouth just the right way and my left eye (surgery side, drrop side) seems to water a lot. Head feels full still but a lot of the numbness has abated except right where the incision is -my lobe is feeling the way it always did but the top half of the ear is still numb. Counting the positives...on the plus side, I walked on the beach today to check out the erosion and I felt a little wonkyheaded and my eyes teared a lot but I did not feel off balance llike I'd need any help...just sort of fullheaded. I also cast my vote at the local high school...was able to catch up on SNL on Free on Demand TV and it was really entertaining...we need our chuckles!....my husband was able to get gas and the line was only 15 cars long! Yay!
Tomorrow we take a bus into NYC to see Doctor Roland at an alternate location because NYU is still closed. Looking forward to that...will get his summary of what transpired during my surgery and be sure we heard everything correctly.
Have a good Election Night everyone. I hope and pray more of us are warm and safe.
Thanks for the prayers and support. Praying with you.
Millie
-
Millie,
So glad to hear that you are doing so well after surgery and THE storm,,, thanks for updating us and take it one day at a time and you will do fine I am sure,, patience was something I had to work on developing more of,, :o
I hope your appointment goes well tomorrow ,, enjoy your "day out" and rest when you get home,,
Good thoughts and prayers for all of you in the area of this next storm coming,,, hoping it does not cause too much more tree damage etc. Jane
-
Jane...When you write of being patient, you have hit home. It is hard to be patient. I will try to stay constructive and positive.
-
Hi Millie, so glad you are a postie now and things went well. I also had my surgery at NYU and felt very confident of my doctors. I do think they sent me home a little too soon (3 days in hospital!) Please know that things WILL get better! It's a slow process so be patient with yourself. I think, too, that our age (I'll be 64 next month) doesn't work to our advantage. I've just begun vestibular rehab 3 months after surgery and am working thru increased dizziness. The doctors said full recovery takes a whole year, so we're on a journey. One step at a time. Shirley
-
Millie, glad to hear you are doing so well and comforting to know others go thru the same things like my mouth dribbling. You don't mention if you have any head aches or head pain? I have plenty of that at times, hurricane sandy made it worse. I take Ibruprophen now for pain (per my surgeon) and I have some pain pills left for bad times. Like after therapy sessions, my balance is doing really good but they are working on my neck muscles, etc can be a little painful afterwards. Shirley48 I was not in the hospital long either I went in on a Tuesday and had retrosigmoid surgery (10 hours) spent the night and part of the next day in ICU then was transferred to a room and spent rest of that day and night and then was discharged in the early afternoon, they tell me I was a star patient that I did really well and I did where balance was concerned, I had no dizziness but was off balance somewhat (could have been worse) They indicated to me that recuperating at your home is much better because number 1 you get more sleep, and number 2 you are only surrounded by your own germs that your body is immune to. Anyway I wish all the best for you two and everyone else. I just keep looking forward to each day to see improvements. The most important of it all is that we found our tumors, we had surgery and we are here to tell about it. LOL Take care.
PS Watching the snow come down but not cold enough to stick just yet. =) Part of our noreasterner.
-
Yes, Deb and Shirley-I too thought I was sent home a bit soon having had surgery Wednesday, NICU through Friday afternoon, then a step down room through Sat and early morning discharge on Sunday. I was surprised at how little one can do, I think, when we wake up from surgery and anasthesia-I guess I thought yay, surgery was easy, they knocked me out, took it out, now I'll just wake up, jump up, and get on with my life. Hmmmmm. Not as easy as that....and maybe because I too am 65, but I like to think, a young 65. At first when I tried to walk, I cried because I was pretty unsteady. Then it got better. I had hold on to people or things but I could do two flights of stairs SAturday while holding on to the railing and I guess I was becoming strong enough although I did feel terrific wonkiness. Fullness of head and the feeling of a spirit sitting on my left head-is that what makes us feel dizzy? You are right also when you say the hospital is noisy and the germs are a worry. I did not sleep well until I got home...I certainly was never comfortable in the hospital bed, but I think that was due to the surgery, bandages, head trauma, etc. However, I did not have great pain. Just great discomfort days 1,2 and 3.
This past Wednesday we took a bus into NYC for my post-op with my ENT Dr. Roland. Since NYU is still closed we met at an alternate location. My wound looks great. (My sister in law who is a nurse removed the stitches after the hurricane since the city and NYU were closed down) He is pleased with my face and feels it is coming back. He said my head may feel weird for twelve weeks. I am using eyedrops for my lazy left eye. He reiterated they got all the tumor and while it was pressing on my facial nerve, my nerve was not damaged and the droopiness will abate eventually. He seemed really happy and so I must be too. I must be patient.
Thanks for sharing, and talk to you soon. Tomorrow it will be 65 here so let's get out and walk,,,,God bless us every one. Mil
-
Millie
Very interesting posts. I hope things are better in your area. Pictures on TV looks like things are terrible. Glad you described how things were right after your surgery. I am having my surgery Tuesday the 17. I hope I do as well.
-
Lilly-
Each day for me seems a bit better...but it is a process, and each person's journey is unique, and I think each person heals differently with a different time frame. After my first five days, I posted on this forum and wondered if it would get better, and folks on the forum told me that Yes, it would get better, and time and patience were needed. I needed to hear that...Also, prayer helps me a lot, especially in the early days when I seemed so confined to myself, prayer helped me. I
Today is day 24 post op and I walked about a mile and a half on a nature trail with my husband. I have not been assigned any vestibular therapy or exercises-just told to look around at everything and walk a lot. So I'm trying that.
As for the hurricane-our power was restored on the sixth day-but we sought hot showers and heat before then and were lucky enough to have family fairly nearby for that. Gas is tricky, and we calculate what we do based on gas supply. We stay home a lot, but for those who are going to work -or commuting to NYC-what a nightmare. About 200,000 people still have no power.
Lilly, keep us updated, be strong, and you are in our prayers.
Best wishes,
Millie
-
Today is the fourteenth. Four weeks since my surgery. My head still has that fullheadedness. My face is a little less droopy but it is the same the last three days. I slept a lot yesterday, but I walked around the block today. My left eye tears a lot so I am using drops and gel.
Hope Lily did well.
Mil
-
Hey Millie, I am at the 7 week post op level, I still have some facial problems but getting better, I actually could use a straw in my ice tea last week =) and as for the eye tearing it sure does that especially when going from warm to cold temps. So I use the eye drops and ointment still but I have noticed that slowly getting better too. I don't have so much of all the full headedness but I do have probs with my neck muscles, hurting and headaches. And sometimes when I get this tickle in my throat and cough my head will hurt pretty bad. Otherwise my balance is getting pretty good I am in outpatient therapy twice a week for balance and they are working on my head and neck pain and stretching the muscles with exercises. (I guess this what I have to deal with for now from 1- the cutting of the muscle thru incision and 2-being in surgery for 10 hours and being immobile so long. But still things are really looking up, each day will find you getting stronger and steadier on your feet. I have doc appointments in Dec and Jan then will decide if time to go back to work, etc. Again each day things will get better ;D
-
I hope your neck pain is getting better, Debra...my own surgery was only about four hours, I think...then, my head was pretty numb for weeks, and perhaps if I had pain, I did not know it? I was told to take extra strength Tylenol or the pain med they discharged me with but I have found the Tylenol to be sufficient. Lately, but not too often, I get a sharp pain deep in that ear, or a random pain in my head-last night I took two Tylenol about 3 A.M. and then was fine.
I do however, still have numbess under and around the incision, and especially the bone immediately behind my ear, and the top of my lobe. I've been wearing hats to stay cozy when I go outdoors...it's not that cold yet, but ats help with the hair, too, so find a neat wool hat and have some fun!
Today I used lots of eyedrops and tonight I put gel in and taped my eye shut to give it a rest. My facial droop is much better. I dare to say the fullheaded feeling may be changing slightly-slightly-incrementally is the word Sheila used. Baby steps.
I will pray that your headaches subside.
Thanks for your kind words...Mil
-
Thanks for the kind words too Millie! Right now I am taking Ibuprophen per my doctor and I only take a pain pill at night time, they are soon to run out tho =( I don't want to and I know eventually I have to stop taking Ibuprohen and switch to tylenol. I hope that when I do the tylenol works for me too. =) I also have the numbness around the incision, actually on that side where the surgery was more so at times. I am doing my neck exercises at home per the therapist- I sincerely hope that helps in the long run. They claim no pain no gain? Anyway baby steps for sure! Take care! We will get thru this!
-
Today we went to my husband's doctor's visit and then some grocery shopping at Costco. I did fine but my eye teared a lot...using a lot of eyedrops today...My balance is good-it's different from a year ago, but it's still recovery time.
I spoke today with my surgeon's nurse practitioner when I called for the follow up appointment in December. She said from the way I spoke and sounded, she could tell I was pursing my lips better...so my facial components must be getting stronger. I said I had less numbness and still had some fullheadedness and she said that was normal. I will have an MRI three months after October 17th surgery (Jan?) because by then the tissues have calmed down enough for them to check what's in there clearly. She reiterated they got it all so I am very happy and thankful.
Praying for us all. Mil
-
Millie thank GOd they got all of your tumor too! With mine they claim they got 99 - 99.9% of it. My MRI is scheduled for December for their baseline to read from. I had a CT scan when I was in hospital to check things after surgery. I guess I will have to be getting MRI tests every 6 months at first, will know more after see docs again. Take care. And Great on your facial getting better!
-
I will pray you have a good result. When I was in the hospital, one of the interns on the doctor's team (a student I think) said they were going to do an MRI and also and EKG but then they changed their mind. It seems reasonable to do an MRI after three months when everything has calmed down a bit. The doctor who wanted me to have cyberknife said they can never really tell if the tumor will come back because cells are so tiny and invisible. I hope for a good result, too, in January- but 99.9% are pretty good odds, Deb! We can stay positive!
Today I washed my hair and blew it dry with less hassle. I am actually thinking of getting a haircut-a trim-I would wash and dry it myself, then go in and ask them to cut it dry. I think this is better for the hair anyway. My eye still waters, but I actually put makeup on today! Even a dab of eyeshadow. It looks better!
I think each day is a teensy bitbetter. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving every angel on this site!
Mil
-
I think my face is a little looser. Last night I had some twinges in my upper left tooth and this morning my smile seems a little less crooked. Have a good day, all.
Mil
-
Great news!!
-
That is Great Millie! Have a great Thanksgiving! We are truly blessed even with all the symptoms we have to endure. =)
-
My eye is really bothering me-I don't know if it is irritated by the drops or the fact I am trying to use the computer more than usual...I have not been wearing my eyeglasses because of the surgery and my eyes had been so fussy after surgery it was easier not to wear eyeglasses.....add to that that one eye is extremely nearsighted, and the other extremely farsighted, and you get a sense of my frustration. I'm always holding my left eye shut then it starts to tear. Today I went into a few stores to try to do a little shopping and with the tearing eyes, the SSD (which has not really bothered me so much yet) and the out of head feeling I got very discouraged. I think if my eye keeps this up I will e-mail the doctor and/or his nurse practitioner...also my facial droop seems to have gotten better but now maybe it has decided to stay status quo since my eye is still not blinking like the other one...I go back to the doctor DEcember 6. Hmmmm. A little frustrated.
Thanks all. G'nite. Mil
-
We have not heard from Lilygold who was to have surgery November 13th. Those first days are so hard. Remembering her in prayer...
-
Hi Millie, don't get discouraged! I am 9 weeks out and the facial is still getting better, my eye gives me the major probs at times. I also have noticed my AN side eye still has issues, my mouth is getting better quicker than my eye but there is still improvement with both. I have noticed the computer causes more eye strain at times but it gets better. And what is funny is I was watching something on TV other day and got teary eyed but only on the good eye side. =) My balance is getting really good my only complaint is the pain I get. When I walk my neck muscles hurt so I get a headache, when I sleep I wake up with a headache, I sneezed the other day for the first time and that was not so bad, but I kept getting this tickle in my throat and coughed- Oh My God! It hurt so bad I was brought to tears holding my head, my poor dog did not know what to do kept trying to give me his paw poor thing. I did find out now if I bend at the waist when I cough the pain is not as bad. So my best friend is Ibuprophen and the heating pad at times. But all in all things are getting better as they will continue to do for you too. Take care. Oh and I go back for MRI Dec 12, then Dec 19 I see ENT Surgeon and get a hearing test and check out hearing aides, then on January 9th get to see the Neurosurgeon and see about going back to work.
-
It is good to hear your updates debraclark and Millie. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
karen
-
Debra
Yes every day is a little better...And DEb, what you wrote about your good eye- the same thing happens to me with my good eye! It can start to tear as well-I think it is because we may overwork the good eye with T.V.? My good eye is on the right-but to read, I have to close it and use my left-when it clears a bit. I squint with it a lot to read the morning paper...but I think I am healing!
My an was on the left, and so my facial droop and eye blink probs are on the left, but they are improving. As you again said in your post, it seems the mouth gets a teeny bit better before the eye does..-the lower face-and then, I guess the nerve healing spreads upwards. My left eye looks better too. But my WRINKLES are still there!
You also mentioned waking up with a headache lately. This is interesting, because a few mornings I have too...the way I explain it to myself is maybe my head is not so numb anymore, and it is starting to "feel" normal sensations again...I also get a pain deep in my ear now and again, but nothing that really bothers me.
I may try to drive tomorrow. I go in to NYU Thursday to see my doctor. I must remember to ask about exercises.
Have a good night!
Mil
-
Hi all-
Just an update...
My face continues to improve. I still have a sarcastic looking smile but I think my droop is better. The eye seems a bit better too, but still has a way to go. I saw the ENT this past Thursday and he seemed pleased. He said see me in early January and when I asked about exercises he said we could talk about it then-I guess he thinks my face/eye may get better yet.
I still can't purse my lips completely and dribble if I drink out of a soda bottle, but it certainly is much better than right after surgery. Much much better. The first days were so hard-but it did get better. It is different from last year, but definitely better.
Sometimes, I grieve my hearing-especially when in noisy or busy environments...but I don't much venture forth into those yet.
My left vision is still off, but I am going to the eye doctor Thursday...I may have something else going on. The ENT said my vision should not be affected-I think that is what he said. IT IS SO IMPORTANT TO WRITE DOWN YOUR questions and doctors' answers; like so many on the site have said, we get so ferklempt when we are finally in the doctor's office, we forget half of what we wanted to ask. One thing he did say was we will talk about hearing devices after I have healed some more.
I tried driving yesterday. It went all right, but I just went to the grocery store, and I would not risk passengers yet.
Have a good night, all. Thanks for your support.
Millie
-
Millie, I am glad to hear you are still noticing improvements. You are an inspiration to all of us with your positive, courageous attitude.
karen
-
Thanks Karen. But I am not so brave today-and am feeling a little discouraged Today I went to the doctor with my 90 year old mom(my husband drove) and then went to the grocery store with her. I did start to feel bobbleheaded. Walked just fine but to use an old phraseof mine, there was a spirit sitting on the left side of my head and he weighed nothing but I could feel him. (My new explanation of my personal wonky feeling) Later when I returned something to Kohl's I really felt out of it and maybe I just overdid it. Not fun returning gifts you haven't even given yet.My eye has been watering a lot-and has anyone noticed that the eyelashes on the AN eye are much much shorter after their surgery?
I want to feel more like my old self, and with the holidays and all the other issues going on, it is hard.
Someone on another thread-I think it was Steve- said improvement goes on for months after the surgery so stay positive.
Thanks everyone.
Mil
-
It makes sense to want to be back to normal, especially around the holidays.
Karen
-
Hey, Millie,
My thoughts are with you and I will keep you in my prayers. I was not confident driving at two months. I just got tired of being dependent and did it anyway, which maybe was not so smart. Fortunately, driving quickly became easier. Then I had to learn to do it in the dark, which still makes me uneasy.
We all heal at our own pace. You are still a fresh-out. I know it is hard to be patient, but things will get better and better, albeit sometimes more slowly than we would like.
Liz
-
Hi Millie, Don't get discouraged with the Wonkey Headedness I still get it at times but more so when the weather is changing. All I keep dealing with mostly is head pain, headaches, neck pain. Fun and like you said with the holidays you want to be your old self again. I know the feeling. I just had my MRI (baseline) done yesterday in Phila, afterwards I stopped at my surgeons office and spoke to the nurse which spoke to him. They gave me scripts for pain meds and steroids. They are gonna call me on Monday to see how making out, if not better he wants to see me sooner than my January appointment. Thank God for my husband too, takes off work and drives me to all my appointments etc. I did drive to my therapy appointment for the first time tuesday only 5 mins away. It was ok but I still feel nervous about it as of yet. And the eye is still a bother will see if the steroids help again with that too. Last time I took them it made a great difference in my facial. Well, stay positive and enjoy your christmas and New Year. We have alot to be thankful for with our surgeries even if the recovery is a little difficult at times. When I get down and depressed I take some time and just think back to all I have been thru and how much I have accomplished in my recovery and then I feel better about myself. Take care of yourself and keep the faith. Prayers have made all the difference for me. =)
-
Thank you ladies, for your support. Your words mean so much to me always. And let us remember the innocents of Connecticut in our prayers.
-
Just an update...
Still not driving. Seated, I feel fine. However being SSD as a result of the trans-lab, as well as the fullheaded feeling, are bothersome enogh to make me feel cautious.
My eye is also needing the Refresh gel and ointment at night.
I feel like I have reached a stalemate in my progress-family says my face is a lot better-and it does look better-but my left eye is not blinking in time with my right, and I am missing my hearing. Sometimes I have ear-ringing, and sometimes, it is worse than others. I definitely feel very different from one year ago.
Trying to be patient but am getting a little frayed.
Mil
-
Debra thank you for your advice about the fullheadedness. Also, I think you are right about feeling less wonky when sitting down. I just hesitate to drive when I can't hear out of the left ear and my concentration isn't up to it yet. I think.
-
A short post in case any one is following a trans-lab surgery....I sa my ENT January 7 and he said my facial nerve is coming along. Sent me to a therapist for facial nerve therapy but therapist said the nerve has to heal in its own time...no exercises given, just something to do with my fingers if I get pain or twitching.
I see an audiologist next week for discussion of hearing devices. My head still feels full on the left side. The doctor said that may be the hearing loss giving me that sensation.
Interestingly enough, the same day I made the appointment to go into NYC to the audiologist connected to NYU I received an advertisement from a local audiologist regarding the Soundbite I am going 70 miles west to try. I wonder if I might do the Soundbite out here? I must e mail the doctor.
No headaches. Facial droop much better. Left eye does tear still...people who have not seen me in a month say I look much better.
Grateful.
Mil
-
Hi Mil,
I had wondered how you were doing. I too still have the fullness and I also am SSD, I have loud roaring tinnitus in that ear and gets worse if I am in noise or tired. I have driven once last week and then held off because I almost felt sick looking both ways when pulling out in the road. I have been moving my head alot to try to relieve that sensation and am better so I think I may try again tomorrow. I'm not ready for an interstate but I think I will be ok on a standard road.
I am also looking at getting the soundbite but the only thing that troubles me is I'm not sure if insurance covers it. You can go to their website and get some info on the product. I also have talked to a lady that has one and she loves it but her insurance has not paid. I really cannot afford it if it is not covered. Please let me know what you find out.
Like you, it is a big adjustment to losing hearing and the fullness and roar of tinnitus. I go back to the Dr on Jan 31st and I am so scared of going back to work. My job is very stressful and I'm afraid that will make the roaring worse and I almost have panic attacks when I'm in alot of noise and the roaring starts but I'm hoping that is going to get better. Others have done it so I can too....
I am also having a really bad taste on that side of my mouth, it has gotten worse in the last week. It is so bad it is hard for me to go to sleep at night, seems worse at night or maybe it's just because I am still and notice it more. Have you had that sensation?
Good luck to you! I hope you get to feeling better soon and please let me know what you find out about the soundbite.
Glenda
-
I'm on it on the Soundbite-Glenda-are you walking? TRy walking more. I am trying to walk this out of my head. I know it is cold.
Last night I emailed the docotr and as usual he was so prompt in answering I was amazed. He said the fullheadedness should get better and better. I too have that funny taste on the left side of my mouth. The doctor said it is because the facial nerve runs alongside whatever nerves transmit the taste sensation. I think it gets better.
I also think the doctor said we may have three year grace period to pay for Soundbite-not sure. Am doing an errand today but will get on this Monday. I am thinking monthly payments are worth it-and maybe Medicare and NY Empire Blue Cross Shield will pay something- after all, don't we need this to be better drivers?
Have a good positive day. Your friend Mil
-
Hi millie,
Hang in there! ... i' reading but until after surgery and i know what recovery i'm facing my advice is thin xxx
thoughts and healing vibes to you
Sam
-
Healing vibes and positive thoughts and prayers, always!
Mil
-
Glenda and Millie, regarding the tongue/taste problem, I had a bitter and metallic taste post-surgery. It persisted for a year ( a year was Oct 2012 ) and then started to get better. Now at 15 months the taste is practically gone. My tongue remains numb on the AN side and at times feels burned, but it is real improvement.
-
Thanks LakeErie for the input on the taste. It is metallic and really bad....it was not that bad right after surgery but is terrible now. I was hoping it would go away soon but at least there is hope that it will go away.
Hi Mil, I walk every day, I am in SC so it has actually been quite warm and springlike for the last week. We had temps in the 70's and 80's. It has now cooled down to the 50's but is still not bad. Therapy has me walking and turning my head and it has really helped. I did drive into town yesterday and it was fine. I did notice I drove slower than I usually do but I think that I was just nervous. The hearing doesn't bother me that bad with the driving but I don't play the radio like before, even when my husband drives we have been leaving the radio off so I can hear him. I took a neighbor with me yesterday so we left it off too. The dizziness is getting much better, it is still there but so much better. I hope in a few weeks it will be gone. I hope you continue to do well! I will be watching your posts to see if you end up getting the soundbite :)
Your friend Glenda
-
HI Millie, I know I have not been on here in a bit, I am on the facebook page for Acoustic Neuomas more than I am on here. I quickly looked at the posts since the last time I wrote. Glad to hear your facial is doing better. My face looks fine but my eye is still dry does not tear and my nose and mouth also. I do not have that bitter taste thing going on but I lose my voice at times because of the dryness need to have gum, cough drops or water handy. Your wonki headness is going to get better and you are right about walking it is very important for many reasons and does help us in our recoveries. I did find out something about why I may be having a lot of probs with headaches and head pain. I have an atrophied neck muscle on the surgery side and now I am getting therapy twice a week for that. If I sneeze, cough or accidently sleep on that side I get a horrible headache. I have been back to my surgeon and he said my baseline MRI looks good and not to get discouraged because I am still early in recovery, especially because of the length of surgery and size of tumor. Don't you be discouraged either. They asked me do I feel better now than I did a month ago and of course I said yes except for the headaches. So there is progress just takes time. I did start driving couple weeks ago and that is getting better. I may be going back to work in March that is tentative at the moment. I have not gotten any hearing aid, I got the papers to review on different ones but the insurance sure does not pay for alot? Sometimes the tinnitus is bad but you almost get used to it, I usually run a small fan at night for background noise and it helps. I only notice the tinnitus really bad when it is too quiet. Anyway you take care of yourself and keep thinking positive. Debbie
-
Thanks, Lake and Debra! And Glenda, just today I thought if I drove, I would not have the radio on any more. Better for concentration. A friend reminded me that when our windows are closed, we can't hear that much outside the car anyway.
Tomorrow I see the audiologist in NYC and will report back here. It is very cold out-no walking today!
-
Deb- you will be happy to read the audiologist told me not to be afraid to frive...lots of people with impaired hearing are driving and doing just fine.
As for the hearing device- it looks like we have a choice between phonak cross, Soundbite and Baha.
None are really covered by insurance.
1. Soundbite. You get an audiologist who deals in Soundbite and they set in motion a meeting with a dentist who takes measurements. These get sent to California whre your device is made. (I think.) You get the device in a couple months. The folks that work for Soundbite will file appeals to your insurance company for you for three years. They consider Soundbite a medical device. Apparently, insurance companies judge each case differently. As a Soundbite buyer, you take your chances (it seems to me) for three years, then you find out what you owe, then you pay. If you need to have a payment system, they work it out for you. (This is my understanding.)
I do not know if this means you can wear this for three years without a payment. It seems to cost about nine thousand dollars.
2. BAHA. The audiologist said since I just had translab, I probably do not want another head surgery. You cannot test BAHA first either. You get the little abutment implanted and when it heals, and the bone adheres to it, you get the sound device to snap on it. I think it costs what Soundbite costs. I think you petition insurance companies yourself.
3. Phonak Cross is about three thousand dollars and uses the Blue tooth system. (I do not know anything about Bluetooth.) You can't seem to try one out before you buy it either.
So for now, I am undecided and still thinking. Ironically, I received a letter from a local audiologist advertising a free coffee hour Soundbite information session. I think I will go!
Mil
-
3. I forgot to write that the NYC audiologist said if one does not like the Phonak Cross after a month, you can return it and get about 80 per cent of your money back.
-
Just a post to say I have returned from a 9 day stay in Aruba, and the warm weather was a delight. I think it must help healing and balance because it is so much easier to be out walking when it is a breezy 85 or 88 degrees. I tried floating and swimming in the sea or pool to aid balance. I am hoping the Vitamin D from the sun helps our nerves and veins grow back more quickly too.
My head was fine on the flight. I still needed my drops in the day and the gel at night. The facial muscles on the operated side are not as strong as my good side, but they are much improved over the four months. Still need the Refresh Liquigel by day and the ointment by night. Taste still off as the left side of my tongue feels like it has been burned or something-I don't enjoy taste as much. However I am getting better at going into stores and handling all the activity and the lights...Going to an eye doctor Tuesday . Still get tired and go to bed early
but hopeful things will continue to improve.
Miss my hearing in the left ear...even though I only had 40 percent before the surgery, it was definitely something. Ah, well, I am still lucky I guess.
Hang in everyone. Mil
-
Hi all...just an update...getting new glasses, but then, i was due for a pair before surgery and the eye doctor says my left (the a.n. side), eye seems in good shape...it is still bigger and rounder than my good eye but blinking is more in sync...face seems petty good...a little slant of my lip
in the other direction, when i get up in the morning but then i massage it a little like the therapist showed me and it seems to straighten out...actually, my an side looks a little like a face lift, and that's not so bad!
Tonight I drove home in the dark on pretty busy roads-was't planning on that but that is how things turned out-and I did just fine. Dare I say that the weight of the spirit sitting on my head seems lighter too, or am I getting used to the new normal...feeling pretty decent..
Best wishes to all...hope and strength...Mil
-
Mil!!
Great news!! So jealous of your trip to Aruba ;-) I know you had a wonderful time!! I am so glad you are feeling better. We are still healing at about the same rate. I feel the same as you and so glad we are getting better and "adjusting" to the new us ;D.
Glenda
-
Hi Glenda-
I am glad to read you are progressing too-time is our friend, we have read on this site. My head still feels like there is pressure in/on it which seems to affect my balance perception, if that makes any sense...also I am aware of a tightness in my cheek on the surgery side...my husband cannot wait for me to address the hearing device issue seriously...the eye doctor today gave me a script for new glasses and says my vision is actually better than it was but keep using those drops...affected eye swings between lots of tearing and dry eye...I see the ENT next week. I wish you continued good progress. Mil
-
Hello Millie,
I want to thank you for keeping up on your recovery. I am heading to Mayo Clinic for my translab surgery on Wednesday March 13th. I appreciated hearing about what recovery is like. I am aware that everyone is different. My tumor is now a medium sized tumor, I have lost about 70-80% of my hearing already. I have had nonstop vertigo for the past 15 months. I am hopeful that the vertigo will lessen after surgery! My neurosurgeon said that my brain is just not finding a new path for balance. My balance therapist said that maybe my brain is over compensating. My husband and I appreciated reading your blog and about the hearing options and insurance issues to the hearing devices.
Lauren
Winthrop MN
Diagnosed 6/2011
12/12 AN 1.5 cm
Surgery scheduled 3/13/13 St Mary's Hospital Rochester MN
-
I wish you healing. Congrats on soon being a postie! :)
-
Hello everyone-
I have not been keeping up with the computer lately. A dear friend and colleague who battled cancer for eight years passed on last week after a downturn at Christmas ... I am reminded of the gift life is and to make the most of each day.
Have had an upper respiratory thing going on and it makes me very tired. Took a bunch of Zicam and Mucinex Max.(my own prescription) I see Doctor Roland tomorrow Monday as he had a meeting last Thursday that necessitated a time change. My balance is good but I still feel something sitting .on my head. No pain or headaches. Eye seem to tear a lot but maybe that is the weather or age? My visit to the eye doctor showed nothing unusual-I am supposed to get new glasses today...I have new earmuffs (headphones wireless by Sennheiser) and they really make listening to T.V. much easier. They are about $120 on Amazon and recommended by a friend who flew helicopters in Viet Nam.
Hoping to become inspired to get more with it soon.
Hugs and prayers to all ...Mil
-
Hi everyone-
Saw Doctor R today and he said my face is very actively coming back... I was glad to hear this as sometimes the an side tilts up a bit now but it's all good. The doctor advised facial therapy for more specific exercises as I have movement in all the important areas.. My eye tears and I still use drops ...my new glasses are quite good except for the blurriness caused by tearing so I don't wear the glasses as much, a problem many have posted...however the doctor said it should get better, including the taste sensation, as well as head fullness.
We talked about hearing devices again-Baha or Soundbite...
I felt more positive after the visit. Encouraged. Grateful and blessed.
Best wishes to all of you on this journey.Mil
-
Hi, Millie ~
It's heartening to learn that your long-term recovery is progressing in the right direction. Thanks for communicating your good news to those who can be encouraged by it.
Jim
-
Hi Millie,
What a great report from Dr. Roland, and I am glad that you are feeling more positive about your recovery. At almost six months out, you have made terrific progress, and there is more to come. I think it is harder for you to see the changes in your face since you see it all the time and are acutely aware of the bits that don't work the way they did pre-surgery. You looked great at the last meeting. That was more than six weeks ago, so by now you are looking even more beautiful :)
Miranda
-
Miranda, you are too kind! However thanks for making me smile.
Thanks also Jim for your kind words-I have been waiting for a post from you! Yay!
As to my progress this week...today is March 29th and I have been thinking that the spirit that sat on the left side of my head has gotten lighter! Could this be so or is it my imagination? Or that I am getting used to whatever? Sometimes I have to stop and say, wait a minute-is that heavy head feeling gone? I feel pretty good! Not perfect but pretty acceptable.
This week, I am going to a nearby ENT office tosample a hearing device that will sort of replicate the Soundbite-the audiologist said she worked with Dr. Roland as an intern so that's good news. Her office is a lot closer than NYC so I'll give it a whirl.
I bought new sneaks and have been trying to do a mile a day now that the weather is nicer, and I did some raking and weeding easily-bought flats of pansies for planting outdoors and tomorrow plan on cleaning for a while for a small Easter gathering.
I also seem to be enjoying stores a bit more- the lights and sights are not as overwhelming or tiring at all. I must admit I do things at my own speed and I like to turn in by 9:00 P.M. but
if I had a good book I'd be reading more...
Hang in there post-ops...it will get better but it will take time.
Happy Easter and Happy Spring everyone!
-
MILLIE!!
been thinking of you pleased to hear your progress xxx
-
Hi-quick update...forgetting to use drops, and i think that means my eye is not needing them...I seem to be blinking on time with the other eye and I even wore eye makeup yesterday that stayed pretty put.
Still have a funny sensation about taste on the left side of my tongue..
More tolerant of shopping activity...
Facial therapy scheduled...tried a device that helped understand Sonitus and am waiting on their report regarding coverage...Medicare does not cover...
Life is different but getting better...Mil
-
My apologies for not keeping up with the forum...lots of "stuff" going on, but a quick update.
#1. For all having trans-lab surgery, it does get better. Keep the faith.
#2. I still have issues-my face can feel a little stiff on the an remoal side, and if I am tired or stressed, it seems to slip UP to mimic a facelift. I will address this with the therapist on May 1-had to cancel my long awaited appointment due to a virus. However people say if they did not know me, they would never know I had surgery.
#3. I do get more tired than I used by day's end but I am considering myself still recovering six months after surgery.
#4. While my eyes are better, and my vision seems to have returned to normal, I still have a little dry eye but not using drops nearly as much. I also think the problem is my new eyeglass script is off.
#5. Lots of people talking at once as in a dinner setting or a baby shower becomes very difficult and tiring. Lots or reading and computer time seems to make my face slip up. I don't think alcohol is good for folks after this surgery...not sure why.
Does anyone know when the next meeting for the New York City group is? I understand Dr. Roland is to speak.
Thank you.
Prayers.
Millie
-
Just an update of activity-walked this morning and realized I need to be aware of my deficit hearing as I can't really tell when cars are in back of me-so if you are walking these lovely days, stay to the side, choose quiet roads, and walk with a friend. I felt wonky here and there, but not bad. I also did a lot of weeding and planting today. Sometimes feel dizzy/ a little off, but enjoying gardening and having fun! Anyone know when the next NYC meeting is? Thanks. Mil
-
oh i agree life sure is different as a postie xx
-
Just an update of activity-walked this morning and realized I need to be aware of my deficit hearing as I can't really tell when cars are in back of me-so if you are walking these lovely days, stay to the side, choose quiet roads, and walk with a friend. I felt wonky here and there, but not bad. I also did a lot of weeding and planting today. Sometimes feel dizzy/ a little off, but enjoying gardening and having fun! Anyone know when the next NYC meeting is? Thanks. Mil
June 8.
-
Hello all...
Just an update...I have not been posting as my mom passed away June 29th when her cancer returned aggressively earlier that month. I'm trying to deal with the loss and have been reflecting a lot.
In August, I had Botox injections to loosen my paresis side with a Dr. White in the city...I cannot tell if they have helped me or not but they were three weeks ago...I must confess I have not been doing my facial exercises regularly(my brain has been a bit scattered and not due to the AN) and have been a bit depressed because my left side still feels stiff around the cheekbone and the eye. I look pretty good with a little lopsidedness when I smile, and my "bad" eye seems to squint during certain expressions, but I need to do my exercises more, I think. I have my MRI IAC with and without contrast tomorrow to see if the tumor is behaving and gone. Then I see Dr. Roland on October 17th, a year to the day of the surgery. I report to Dr. white on the 9th. Iam very impressed with these two wonderful men. I wonder what Dr. Golfinos will say when I see him-it will be one year after the surgery, and it will be my first visit with him as I did not have to follow up with both, and so I chose Dr. Roland. But now it is time to see him too. I think my tumor was a little challenging as it was a sticky tumor and a little bigger than they thought. I have yet to download my records from NYU which will be interesting to read.
On another note, a regular checkup revealed my bad cholesterol is very high! Now that is a problem I NEVER had-so I need more blood work Wednesday. I hope it's just all the ice cream and cake and comfort foods I have been cramming in there to try to fill the hollow
space. Another thing I need to address is the BAHA...I think hearing better will make me feel more "with it" and even more balanced. I can't tell where voices are calling from.
I was so happy to find Mark Ruffalo' presentation on the ANA site...his words were right on...and he looks great! It is over eleven years for him! As he said, we need patience, grace and gratitude.
Love and best wishes to all...Millie
-
October 18, 2013
A quick update from Millie...
My one year MRI showed all tumor gone, no sign of tumor. Dr. Golfinos was very pleased said I looked very good and I've come a long way. He says my tumor was 1.5 cm and yes, my hearing and balance nerve are gone on that side. Then I saw Dr. Roland who also read the MRI the same way...I am very ahppy the tumor is gone, but I did not expect it to come back. It better not!
He also said I have gone from a 5or 6 to a 2 and is pleased with my progress and said I might try a bit more Botox as my upper cheek and eye tighten up a bit due to sinkenisis.
Counting blessings. Dr. Roland shoed me a patient who got an implant for the Baha after ten years, and I felt very excited to get to the next level.
Still get tired more easily and can fel a bit out there, but doing much more.
I am going to get a Baha I believe the date for the post is November 29th the day after Thanksgiving.
Must run!
Mil
-
Been feeling a little tired and fell headed lately...noticed walking on uneven terrain and noisy places are getting tedious...is it just normal aging or the residuals after a big surgery...my left face still stiff and I see Dr. White today....will post soon. Best wishes to all. Millie
-
Just a quick report on November 1st…
I read some of my posts from right after surgery and have decided to add:
1. I am getting used to tinnitus although I cannot tell if I have it all the time.
2. I have decided to try yoga for improved balance in not just body, but spirit too.
3. I am going to walk a little very day. Vigorously. No matter the distance.
4. I am going to do my facial exercises regularly to help myself more.
5. I am improved much from last year although I prior surgery I did not realize to what extent post-op issues might occur. I had read about some folks with remarkable quick recoveries. It was not as easy as I thought. Each person is different and his or her outcome/journey will be too.
6. It was still a benign tumor. Now it is gone. Life is changed but there is much to be grateful for. It is what it is and will be what I make of it.
God bless us every one.
Mil
-
I have read all your posts and want to thank you for taking the time to let us all know how your recovery went. I know each is different but the not knowing is scary, and reading others journeys helps ease the panic I am starting to feel as my surgery date is approaching fast. I have read some remarkable surgery times and recovery times. I am going to plan on being somewhere in the middle so I will only be a little let down if I am slower and very elated if I heal quicker
-
Hello everyone-Happy Thanksgiving!
Just a quick update.
Spent the week cleaning and cooking for the four or five glorious hours we share with family on Thanksgiving. It was lovely and exhausting.
Next day, went to NYU for the BAHA implant. I had last minute heebie jeebies. However, everyone at the hospital was so compassionate and kind, I soon started to feel stronger.
The anesthesia was different from the big surgery anesthesia; in fact, it was a bit of an adventure. I could hear Dr. Roland shaving my hair in just a little spot, and I could hear him speaking to another doctor about procedure and I could hear drilling….like I was watching T.V. then I think I fell asleep. Then I woke up at the end of the procedure. I was in recovery for two hours and went home.
That's all I remember. Now I have Tylenol for pain (none just a little sore) and an antibiotic. I must confess, I have been a lazy couch potato for two days watching movies…granddaughter came to visit and really made it Sunday...-will try to walk outside tomorrow.
For those who have had AN surgery, the BAHA implant is so very,very much different and easier…on a scale of 1 to 10 it is a .25. Don't hold me to it. Everyone is different. However, be brave and try to relax.
In ten days, I am to see Dr. Roland. I'm on my way!
Blessings, Mil
-
Millie ~
Thanks for the BAHA update and congratulations on your implant!
We appreciate your account of the implant procedure that will help assure future BAHA recipients that the procedure is relatively easy.
Jim
-
Healed very nicely…just a little itchy…doc says I can get my hair highlighted…I think I will hold off on that…am kind of proud of the little snap on my skull. Bionic woman! Although you really can't see it with the way your hair falls.
-
Still have that tightness in my face around the eye and cheekbone. I need to connect to the Jackie Diehls webinar but am having some trouble. I see the plastic surgeon early January to discuss progress.
Best wishes to all. Mil
-
Got the BAHAlast week! It is a help…will post more later…it's not the same as haring but it is an enhancement! Amazing.