ANA Discussion Forum

Treatment Options => Microsurgical Options => Topic started by: NancyMc on April 02, 2009, 06:40:21 pm

Title: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 02, 2009, 06:40:21 pm: April 2 - Today I faced the reality. It was pre-admissions testing day. My consent form had expired; as you may remember my surgery was postponed. According to Dr. Barker, that happens rarely but he remembers an emergency AN surgery back in February (27th to be exact!). So I began by listening to all the possible side effects of surgery. Is it difficult for them to read those to their patients? Note to self, ask surgeon brother. Signed the consent form while emphasizing my trust in their skills to the point that I did not anticipate any of those slight probabilities. I had given him the films from Monday's Bun O' Fun and asked if he'd received the report and if it had grown since October. He said he didn't have the report, but it did appear to have grown a little.

Then down to radiology for a chest x-ray. Quick snack and over to the main building to check out the wireless connection so Dave can work on my laptop while I am in hospital. Peeked in the family waiting area where the tension was palpable and the chairs were filled to capacity. Glad I don't have to spend a day in there. But then there is a luxurious library just down the hall that was comfortable and unoccupied other than staff as I passed through to check the connection. Note to self, advise Dave of this opportunity for peace and quiet.

Next, down the hall to pre-admissions testing. Almost every chair was occupied. Fill out health history forms. First nurse does vitals, weight, EKG (had to have a second go at that one after being told to relax), draws five tubes of blood and a cup of urine. Back to waiting room. Nurse practitioner calls me in for review of health history, lifestyle, questions about care during and after surgery, how I am coping with the stress of upcoming surgery. Of course, I tell her all about the Magic Scarf and journal, the loving forumites, the Mad Hatter, the cute Aussie with the funny stories, and the wine. Back to waiting room. Last but not least, anaesthesiology nurse calls me in for more health history, look at throat. And I'm done!

Drive home after collecting dog at mother's and recounting the day's events. Magic Scarf which is wrapped around my neck as we speak and journal are in the day's mail along with the MRI report which shows no growth and mentions decreased enhancement of tumor consistent with cystic or necrotic changes. Immediately post on the word necrotic (see thread elsewhere).

Dinner and therapeutic wine.

Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: microsoftfree on April 02, 2009, 06:46:43 pm: You are an absolute riot! ;D The surgery will be a much needed vacation!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 02, 2009, 09:04:40 pm: Nancy,

You had alot more done than they did for me pre-op. I didn't get an EKG or any urine tests. No chest X-ray either. Just some blood work, vitals and a slap on the back with a jolly "You're in good shape for surgery". :)

Ok, maybe not quite like that, but they really didn't do many tests.

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 03, 2009, 02:39:25 am: Yeah I hardly had anything done either! I had a bunch of blood taken, no urine...I was weighed (which was such a shock... had I really put that much weight on since Christmas??!!), met the anaesthetist who told me all the risks, met a neuro registrar who told me all the risks and a neuro nurse who asked me a few questions, was super lovely and put me at ease straightaway... she was a riot. And that was it. No dramas... you must have a very thorough hospital!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 03, 2009, 06:04:29 am: Well, you know, the northeastern part of our great country has a lot of lawyers. ::)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 03, 2009, 08:01:11 am: Nancy,
I just realized your surgery is a few days before the big luncheon and I couldn't remember if you were going. I looked and saw your name on the list. Good for you! I would suppose that you're not driving yourself!
Hope you are doing well. Keep sporting that scarf!
Hopefully I'll be at the lunch - looking at all the details of the trip and navigating Boston during the marathon (HA! that sounds impossible from what i'm reading).
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 03, 2009, 08:09:41 am: Yes, it is pretty crazy. I went to college at about the halfway point (The runners loved all us women out there cheering them on.), lived for a year at the other side of Break Neck Hill where all were starting their final kick or giving up and walking, and then lived a mile from the route for twenty years. It transforms the city and makes those of us non-runners go out an buy shoes that we'll never use.
Good luck to your husband. Dave will be staying with a 62-year old marathon runner/friend of mine during my hospital stay. We'll try to be at the brunch and hope to see you and everyone else there.
I'm carbing up for my big spa day.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 03, 2009, 10:43:02 am: Hi Nancy,
I just booked everything (those who go to 'read all new posts' will be reading this for the 3rd time)! I'm flying into Manchester and staying in Concord. It'll be a nice vacation away from the 'cares of life' back home! (providing I don't get lost driving everywhere - sometimes I get lost, even with a GPS)!
So you went to Wellesley (probably not sp right)? My husband has heard about the marathon support there; he jokes that he's just going to stop there and stay!
And, since you commended me on spelling "Worcester" correctly, I have since found out that I certainly don't pronounce it correctly. I was pronouncing it "Worse-ter" with a Texan accent (grew up in Texas - still put "R's" in everything; have to balance you New Englanders, who take the R's off everything.
Looking forward to being up there wth you all!
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 03, 2009, 10:55:01 am: You spelled it right! That was the third time I read it! You won't have any trouble parking around the burbs but don't even think about trying to get near the finish line unless you take the T. Even then . . . eek! Bring your running shoes so you can jog from your legal parking place to the course.
Hope to see you at the brunch, but if not, good luck with the logistics. At least you finally picked the right state to fly in and out of! ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on April 03, 2009, 12:55:53 pm: Nancy ~

Your pre-op tests were similar to what I experienced with the exception that mine were mostly conducted outside of the hospital where I had my surgery - which is 32 miles from my home. I had a CT scan and chest X-ray done at a local hospital. The blood and urine work, EKG, etc were done at my PCP's office, for convenience. My neurosurgeon was fine with that. I did have a pre-op MRI scan at the hospital where I would have the surgery, approximately 2 days prior to the actual operation, even though my 'original' MRI had been taken only 3 weeks earlier. My neurosurgeon wanted to be certain of "what the tumor looked like" before he operated. Since he did a splendid job, I couldn't complain. My medical insurance company probably wasn't as sanguine. :) What I found interesting (in a good way) was that, overall, I was in pretty good health. All the blood/urine tests came back normal and the nurse in charge of taking the EKG seemed bored by the results, which, when I asked her, she mumbled "perfectly normal" - as if she were somewhat disappointed. I won't bore you or anyone else with further details but it was sort of reassuring, at 63, to find out that I was in better overall health than I had imagined. You see, except for sporadic checkups, I had assiduously avoided doctors as much as possible and because I was fortunate enough not to suffer from back problems, diabetes, high blood pressure and all the other vicissitudes of late middle-age (or early old-age, if you prefer), I got away with it - for years.

You seem to have breezed through the pre-op process with flying colors and you're obviously ready, physically and emotionally, for the upcoming surgery, next week. I, along with so many others will be thinking of and praying for you, Nancy. I think you'll do just fine, as most of our recent surgery patients have. I look forward to meeting you at the brunch, April 19th. :)

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 04, 2009, 10:09:21 am: Hey Nancy,

I haven't been on for a while and just caught up on your post(s).

I'm surprised that your spa pre-consult you didn't get to pick out the lettering for your monogrammed Egyptian terry robe or get a chance to review the spa cuisine menu so you could pre-order. Nor did you get a chance to select your spa services in advance? Shiatzu or swedish massage? Seaweed or hydrating facial? And what about signing up for Yoga class? Or Meditation? This is shabby. I would totally complain to the management. Perhaps they will compensate you with a complementary pedicure. ;)

But seriousy, I have been thinking of you in the past few days and hope you are well and revved up for your 'lipo'. Tell me more about the brunch. Is this the one in Worcester? When is it?

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 04, 2009, 10:54:56 am: ;D Big smile ;D
Yes, I'm revved up. Putting on another layer (of fat, that is) just in case.
Yes, the brunch in Worcester, two weeks from tomorrow!
They did ask dietary preferences, but it caught me off guard, so I didn't get a chance to tell her I want to gag when I think about eating Jell-o. Oh, well, I was able to tell her I don't eat red meat at least. I am sort of expecting (secretly, hoping) that I won't want to eat anything while I'm in there. I can hardly fit into any of my clothes, let alone my bathing suit! I've been gearing up for my spa day since December and then it got bumped six weeks! Big trouble now.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 04, 2009, 04:23:15 pm: Hey Nancy,
I have been stress eating as well. Noticing the waistbands are hugging me a little closer.

Is anyone invited to the brunch or do you have to be an official member, or something. Is just having an AN prerequisite enough?

Take it easy the next few days and go knock the socks off that AN. :D

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 04, 2009, 05:32:09 pm: Hi, Molly.
I'm not really stress eating, just eating because I'm indulging myself and hoping the surgery will be the beginning of a weight loss regimen that will continue through to bathing suit season. I was out in the yard today doing cleanup and getting more exercise than I've had in a long while. It felt great!
Anyone with an AN or friend or relative with one, I imagine, is welcome. Sign up!
Thank you for your encouragement. I'm actually starting to think about this as a vacation . . . I won't have to cook or clean or shop for weeks!
Just getting everything in order before the big day.
nANcy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 04, 2009, 06:03:31 pm: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 02, 2009, 06:40:21 pm
Dinner and therapeutic wine.

Therapeautic wine - now there's a concept that I could really use :D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 06, 2009, 07:35:59 am: (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/magicscarf.jpg)

Packing day . . . final chores and errands. Tomorrow afternoon Dave and I will drive to Brookline (suburb of Boston and my old neighborhood) to have a relaxing evening with friends. Early to bed to prepare for one of those famous cab rides into the very hub of Beantown for our romantic getaway. I, for one, plan to spend the whole vacation in my pajamas!
nANcy

Hey, I just previewed this and sorry for the huge photo, but the left side of my face actually looks weaker than the right, so maybe I'll come out even after the face lift! Yes, that's snow in the background.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 06, 2009, 08:13:50 am: That's the face of someone ready to rock their surgery! Rock it Nancy!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: andrea in slc on April 06, 2009, 08:14:22 am: Great picture Nancy! And love your cute four-footed friend too ;)

Don't forget the Botox that comes with the lipo and the face lift. My sister pointed that out to me just a few days prior to surgery (she was totally kidding). I will say the facial weakness/paralysis does help with those pesky lines in the forehead and around the mouth. ;D

Hang in there, you'll do just fine! Good thoughts and prayers heading your way!

Andrea
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 06, 2009, 08:33:11 am: Nancy,

You look marvelous, absolutely marvelous! :)

I'm so jealous that you have snow. Doubt I'll get to see much here in Tampa :).

In the words of JB, ROCK THAT SURGERY!

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on April 06, 2009, 08:52:43 am: Nice picture, Nancy. Nice scarf, too. ;)

Best wishes for a smooth, routine, trouble free surgery and a measured, gentle recovery.

Peace and love, 8)

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Mickey on April 06, 2009, 09:06:52 am: Best wishes and prayers to you! Mickey
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 06, 2009, 09:22:32 am: Hey Nancy,
You look great. Well rested and happy. Do you get to bring your dog with you? ;D I think dogs are very therapeutic.

I'll be thinking of you in the next few days with prayers abounding and fingers crossed. I know it will be hugely successful and your recovery will be quick.

I am messaging you as well as I have another question for you. Take good care.

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 06, 2009, 09:31:36 am: Quote
those pesky lines in the forehead and around the mouth

What lines?! ;D As you can see, I was/am a sunworshipper, major downhill skiing at a time when there was no such thing as sunscreen.

Quote
I'm so jealous that you have snow.

Very funny, Ernie. >:(

Thanks everyone.

nANcy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lori67 on April 06, 2009, 09:45:17 am: Nancy,

Stunning scarf! You're gonna do great! Maybe all the snow will be gone when you return home.

Gorgeous dog too! I have a golden too - such sweet dogs!

Lori
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 06, 2009, 10:54:06 am: Hi Nancy,
Great picture! Is that your garden in the background? I love the woods and the pond.
I'll be praying for you and your husband.
Looking forward to meeting you both as well!
Take care,
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 06, 2009, 12:11:46 pm: Nancy, you look so pretty there and what a fancy scarf! May it bring you all the luck and comfort you need. I am praying for you, for all things speedy and uneventful, and that you are back on your feet soon. Take care.
Anissa
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 06, 2009, 12:46:00 pm: Dave, my poster boy! Not actually my husband but close enough.
Sorry, once again, not a great photo, but I had to show him with his uilleann pipes (made them hisownself!).

(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/piper.jpg)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: andrea in slc on April 06, 2009, 02:07:29 pm: DOH! Sorry Nancy, I wasn't referring to lines on you, I meant on me or people in general! Now removing foot from mouth...
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 06, 2009, 05:08:23 pm: I know, just kidding, but I'm very proud of my weathered old face. It's had a ton of fun in the great out of doors.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Seal on April 06, 2009, 05:08:56 pm: Good luck Nancy! I'll get to do the same thing next week. BTW, that's a very cool shot of your buddy with the pipes. I was going to start bagpipe lessons this winter with the local Order of Hibernians, but a little medical issue "popped up", if you know what I mean. Right now, I'm not sure what screaching bagpipes would feel like on my remaining good ear anyways!!

Best wishes, and I hope you have a speedy and very successful recovery!

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 07, 2009, 09:23:51 am: Well if the other day was your spa day, tomorrow is your rest day.
I hope all goes well with your trip to Boston and I'll be praying for peace of mind and good surgery and speedy recovery.
See you on the other side.
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 07, 2009, 10:01:04 am: Steve,
Good luck to you on Monday, too. Wish we overlapped so I could meet you.

Keri,
Tomorrow is my spa day, and today is all hurry up and get ready for the trip to Boston.
Thank you for your good wishes.

nANcy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: tsl on April 07, 2009, 01:26:21 pm: Hi Nancy,
If at some point I find myself needing surgery for my AN, I'm going to use you as a role model for handling pressure with such grace and keeping a healthy sense of humor.
-Theresa
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jwh on April 07, 2009, 05:48:01 pm: Will be thinking of you! You'll do great.... Keep us updated.

Jen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 07, 2009, 06:43:49 pm: Thanks, Everybody! I'm off to pack my baskets of muffins for the surgical team and chocolates for the ICU nurses and then bed. Will post the pre-op photo in the early morning once we arrive at MGH.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Lilan on April 07, 2009, 06:58:45 pm: Nancy, great luck tomorrow! You'll soon be strolling out the other side of this!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 07, 2009, 07:07:24 pm: Hi Nancy!

I just wanted to wish you luck and let you know I'm saying a little prayer for your big day tomorrow! Save me a muffin!

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 07, 2009, 07:08:07 pm: Good luck and god speed!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2009, 03:59:26 am: (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/ArrivalEmailSize.jpg)
Here we are, ready to go.
Back in a minute!
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 08, 2009, 06:57:24 am: Cool picture Nancy! Now go evict that little guy living in your head and get back home and start posting! :)

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2009, 07:02:17 am: Hi,
This is Nancy's friend Dave. Nancy was wheeled away to surgery about 7:00 this morning, in good spirits. Her muffins had to be kept at the main desk due to some regulation or other, so we're a little uncertain whether the doctors will get them before the receptionists eat them all... I just talked with the nurse that keeps us updated, and she says she can tell me more or less at what stage things are, but she also says she can't tell me anything about the details of what they're finding or how it's going - have to wait for the doctors for that, which will probably not be until they're all done. Right now Nancy is in the operating room, getting all her hoses, wires, and circuits connected, but they probably haven't cut anything yet. I'll try to keep you all informed as info comes in.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 08, 2009, 07:08:06 am: Thanks for keeping us updated Dave! We are all praying for a great outcome and quick recovery. You have the hard part today...waiting for the news and keeping us all updated :). I'll say a prayer for you too.

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Kaybo on April 08, 2009, 07:50:15 am: Dave~
Try to have an OK day - I know that you have the HARDEST part today. Praying for the surgeons working on Nancy and for PEACE to you and whomever else is waiting with you!

K
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 08, 2009, 08:16:39 am: Thank you, Dave for keeping us updated. I am keeping all fingers and toes crossed for Nancy today. :)

MissMolly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 08, 2009, 09:03:13 am: Nancy I started praying for you when I woke up this morning, I can't wait to hear an update. Dave, hang in there, I know its hard, my hubby did it just last Wednesday. ((hugs))
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2009, 09:06:52 am: Thanks for all the kind words. Nothing to report at this point at 11:00. They say the surgery began at 9:00, so she's definitely in the thick of it now...

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 08, 2009, 09:20:57 am: Thanks for the update Dave.

WeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re all here for you today, and wishing all the best for Nancy and you.
Today makes three weeks post-op for me!
You do have the hard part of waiting. Make sure to take care of yourself today as well.

Scarlett & Richie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 08, 2009, 02:13:13 pm: How are you doing Dave? I'm praying for Nancy! I hope you hear something soon. The Dr.'s are taking very good care of her right now!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2009, 02:32:29 pm: Thanks for the good words and concern. Getting a little tired of knowing nothing. Such a long time to be knocked out! I'm trying not to think about it or worry too much. I know these things take time, and maybe a long time means they're being very careful.

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 08, 2009, 02:51:00 pm: Dave,

Just a quick rundown so that you might know when to expect things:

My operations started at 9:09 A.M. to be exact.
Richie said he got the last update at 3:12 p.m. from the nurses.
The Doctor finally gave a call at 6:44 P.M. to tell him how the operation went.
8:10 P.M is when they moved me to ICU, and Richie was told he could come up to the ICU waiting area at 8:30 P.M.
9:00 P.M. he was allowed to come in and see me in the ICU.

So donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t worry it may still be a little while before you hear anything. It doesnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t mean anything is wrong; they are just taking the time they need to do things right.

Scarlett & Richie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2009, 03:08:59 pm: Thanks, Scarlett,

I'll try to stay busy and not worry, then!

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2009, 03:15:14 pm: The nurse just told me they are finishing up now, and I should expect to hear from the Dr. soon! Guess I'll start holding my breath again. Not sure what the schedule of events will be, so, sorry if it takes me a little while to let you all know about it.

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 08, 2009, 03:22:31 pm: Dave,

We'll be here. Glad to hear the waiting is almost over.

Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 08, 2009, 03:28:59 pm: Glad to hear they are finishing up and you'll be with her soon!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 08, 2009, 03:36:47 pm: Hi Dave,
I've been gone all day. The first thing I did upon returning home was grab the computer to see what's up with Nancy. It's great to have this forum family! Hang in there - sorry you're having to wait so long. Hopefully you know something now and can see her pretty soon, or sort of pretty soon.
Take care,
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: CROOKEDSMILE on April 08, 2009, 03:44:52 pm: We are thinking about you guys.
Angie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2009, 03:46:04 pm: Just talked with Dr. Barker. He says she is done, but needs to wait in the operating room for a while so they can get some space in the ICU, if I understand correctly. Sounds like a busy airport(?). She should be moved there in about 45 minutes, then the nurse here says they will check her out there for about another 45 minutes before I can actually see her. The Dr. said they removed all of the tumor, that it seems to have gone well, but said her face was a little weak on one side- guess that's not unusual - he didn't sound too concerned. I'll try to let you all know how it goes when I finally get to see her, but it looks like it might be 8 or 9:00 when that happens. Forgive me if I don't get back to you all until tomorrow.

Best regards,

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 08, 2009, 04:10:04 pm: Dave,

Glad it's over.
Make sure you give Nancy a big kiss on the cheek from me and tell her I'm thinking of her. :-*

Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 08, 2009, 04:30:07 pm: Phew. Sounds like success. Now it's time for her speedy recovery!!

M
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 08, 2009, 04:58:20 pm: Yes, phew, glad its over and moving forward. Nancy, keep on rockin' this thing! Dave, if you feel comfortable, ask all the questions you have. I told my husband that this forum is the only place on the planet that people will understand his emotions and concerns. We are here for you and Nancy. Best wishes to you both and let the recovery begin. More prayers for you both.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 08, 2009, 05:55:44 pm: I'm so glad to hear Nancy is all done and it sounds as if it was a success... in fact it sounds as though she absolutely rocked it!!! Hurrah! I will hope the next couple of rough days go really fast for her and for you Dave and that she's sitting up in bed and wandering the corridors in no time!

xxx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 08, 2009, 06:54:44 pm: Thanks for the update, Dave.

It sounds like Nancy is well on her way to recovery. Facial weakness on one side is par for the course.

Hope you get some sleep tonight.

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on April 08, 2009, 07:04:49 pm: Good work, Dave. Glad to hear that things went routinely. Recovery will be choppy for a couple of days, it always is, so don't let it worry you. All my best to Nancy.

I am 3 hours behind you out here on the west coast, so do a late night update if you are just hanging around. :)

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on April 08, 2009, 07:17:07 pm: Glad to hear that everything seems to have gone well. Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Hope you get a decent nights sleep Dave. looking forward to seeing both of you at the brunch.

Something to relax by:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ltAGuuru7Q

Bob
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on April 08, 2009, 07:23:26 pm: So glad to hear she's safely through and done for the day...thanks for updating us and yes, of course, we'll understand if you don't update again for awhile.

Get some rest yourself, if you can,

Cindy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lori67 on April 08, 2009, 07:56:41 pm: Dave,

Thanks for keeping us updated on Nancy. I'm glad she did well (we all knew she would) and will soon be home recovering. Tell her to hurry - we'll miss her sense of humor and ability to look on the bright side of things!

Hope both of you get a good rest tonight.

Lori
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: vossman on April 08, 2009, 10:13:30 pm: Dave,

Thanks for all the updates on Nancy. I was in your shoes a week ago today and I know the emotional roller coaster that you have been on today. I know it is hard but take the advice and make sure you get plenty of rest yourself. Nancy will be in good hands while she is in the hospital, but when she gets home that is when she will need you the most. I know I didn't realize how tired I was until a few days later because of the physical and emotional stress. Glad to hear everything went well and you guys will be in our thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.

Chris
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: suboo73 on April 09, 2009, 03:24:45 am: Dave, All our thoughts and prayers are with you, Nancy and your extended family.

Hang tough and remember that most surgery patients say 'the first 3 days don't count.'
(I haven't had this AN experience, but i believe them!)
Nancy will soon be doin' a jig - maybe a little while until she masters the hokey pokey again, but that will come, too!

More prayers and best wishes.
Thank you for the updates!
Sincerely,
Sue
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 09, 2009, 07:14:16 am: Hello Dave and Nancy,

I'm sorry I'm late here, but have my parents visiting from New England so I'm not on the forum as much. Just wanted to say that it sounds like things went well with just some temporary issues to deal with. The recovery process begins now, and for the most part, there will be a lot of improvement over the next three days. Everyone is different, so don't use others experiences as a measuring stick. Nancy should just take it one day at a time based on how she feels.

We will continue to pray for both of you.

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: tsl on April 09, 2009, 07:39:38 am: Hi Dave,
Now that the tumor is out, Nancy and you are done with it! Nancy is officially a "postie". I'm so glad to hear that the surgery went well. Thank you for keeping us posted during such a stressful time. You and Nancy make an unbeatable team.
Take care,
Theresa (tsl)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 09, 2009, 10:16:36 am: Hi to all,

Thank you all so much for your well-wishes and support! Nancy is doing well this morning, but a bit tired out and uncomfortable. She asked for some percocet for a headache she rates at about 3. She feels congested, probably from the breathing tube during the operation, and has needed to cough a little. The nurses didn't really have any remedy for it, and said it was not unusual after the operation. Of course, Nancy's worried about coughing, since she knows that's bad for you! Any advice would be welcome. She also asks if others have experienced this: what little chewing she has done has felt like it wants to make her eardrum pop out (we know there isn't any eardrum, but that's the feeling). Doesn't really hurt, but feels weird, so she's concerned about it enough to want to avoid chewing. Anyone else recognize this?

As to facial stuff - I couldn't tell if she had any problems at all. She still has the same beautiful smile as before! She does have a slightly swollen, bruised looking spot on her lip where she thinks she may have bitten it, but we don't think it has anything to do with the operation. I took a picture last night right after I got allowed in the ICU, but it seems I either left the camera on, or bumped the on switch putting it away, so it wouldn't come on this morning to send you all the picture. I thought she looked great for someone just out of brain surgery!

She seems to have no double vision at all, and could see fine to read things. She did think she had a little depth perception difficulty when she reached for her water cup.

We're still in the ICU, not so much because she needs to be there, but rather because they are waiting for space. This place is really like an overcrowded airport.

The view out her window is great. A park with two baseball diamonds below, then the Charles river with tour boats going under the Salt-and-Pepper bridge. A perfect sunny day!

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Kaybo on April 09, 2009, 10:20:59 am: So glad things are going well!

K
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 09, 2009, 10:31:57 am: I'm happy that things are progressing well. I wish for her that the discomfort abates soon.

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lauralynn on April 09, 2009, 10:55:53 am: Hello Dave,

So glad it is over for Nancy. It's great that all went well and she is doing well. Don't forget to take care of yourself as well! Tell Nancy her AN Buddy (Laura) says, "Hello" and soon her and I will be on the road to recovery together and we can compare stories. I've been praying for both of you and I will continue to.

Sending hugs,
Laura
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 09, 2009, 11:50:57 am: Hi Laura,

Thanks for your kind thoughts. I just went down to the local post office and sent THE scarf on its way to you. Tracking # 0308 1400 0001 5095 5382

Nancy is having what must be a typical first day - headache needs to be drugged away frequently, very tired (maybe because somebody comes by every few minutes and wakes her up to do something), can't hold down much food, generally not fun...

I sympathize with all of you that go through this. I hope all have an outcome as good as Nancy's looks like it will be!

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lauralynn on April 09, 2009, 12:08:38 pm: Hey Dave,
Thanks for getting the scarf out! I'm so glad Nancy is doing well. Hope she'll be able to hold food down soon. Tell Nancy that I will talk to her soon.

Love,
Laura
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Pooter on April 09, 2009, 12:11:42 pm: Woo Woo! Glad surgery is over and healing has started.. Thanks for updating us!

Regards,
Brian
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: ppearl214 on April 09, 2009, 12:18:28 pm: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 09, 2009, 10:16:36 am
The view out her window is great. A park with two baseball diamonds below, then the Charles river with tour boats going under the Salt-and-Pepper bridge. A perfect sunny day!

Dave

I know that view, Dave. For those not familiar with the "salt and pepper", those are the small towers (that look like salt/pepper shakers) on the Longfellow Bridge over the Charles, connecting Cambridge and downtown Boston, not far from the Hatchshell (where the Boston Pops play on July 4) :)

Hi Dave, not sure if you have seen me around here but Nancy and I have tossed back and forth... and barring issues, hoping you both are still making the brunch in Worcester on 4/19. Will keep tabs on you all for that.

I'm sorry I haven't had a chance to chime in on this but computer issues have me bogged and I'm lucky to log on here right now. I know that view from MGH, having spent much time there myself for other issues..... I'm so thrilled that Nancy is now a "postie" and want to thank you for the updates. I've been lurking for the updates and tickled the "magic scarf" has once again, done the trick.

Please give Nancy my very best wishes... and congrats for being a "postie". Please remind her to take it easy... and yourself, as well. We need you healthy too! Hang in there and sending my infamous wellness wishes and hugglez to her.. and to you.

BTW, if you get to sneak down Storrow and get off at Fenway, Dice-K is pitching today and if you stand out on Yawkey, maybe you can catch a BoSox Homer! :)

Be well!
Phyl
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Syl on April 09, 2009, 12:28:30 pm: Dave:

Thanks for the updates. She seems to be doing fine. Hope she keeps this up so she can go home.

Syl
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: elliemae on April 09, 2009, 01:36:12 pm: Hi, Dave
I'm generally a lurker on the forum, but have been following Nancy's spa day since I first saw her wonderful "lipo and face lift" description!

I'm so glad to hear she is doing well. And you too! As long as you're in/at MGH, you should go over to the Yawkey Center and go to Cancer Care patients' area on (I think) the 9th (maybe 8th?) floor. There's a wonderful roof deck there facing the river that s/b very relaxing this time of year (it was kinda COLD in December when I last visited after my radio-therapy!!)

Hope you're back in NH soon! And maybe we will see you on the 19th in Worcester!
Elaine
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on April 09, 2009, 01:45:32 pm: Hi, Dave:

Just popping in to check on Nancy's progress. Based on your last post, she seems to be doing quite well. Her first day reads a lot like mine was. I was stuck in the ICU for 4 days - with the constant racket and too-frequent awakenings to be checked for something or other when, at least the first day, all I wanted was sleep. I didn't experience headaches, but a '3' doesn't seem to be debilitating and should be certainly manageable. with the help of medication. Nancy's appetite should return when the effects of the anesthesia have dissipated, usually by the second or third day, post-op. This was my experience. That Nancy's face appears symmetrical and she isn't showing signs of facial paralysis or even double vision (I had that for a few days) is very encouraging.

As you noted, this is a tough surgery and the initial recovery can be arduous. However, I trust that Nancy, who gives the distinct impression of being a feisty lady, will emerge from this experience in good shape and ready to regain normalcy as soon as possible. Enjoy the wonders of Boston. :)

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 09, 2009, 03:11:57 pm: Just thought you'd like to know; Nancy has been sitting up in a chair most of the afternoon, not too much headache pain, and she decided she wanted to walk a bit. Took a nice walk and did great! The nurse said she had never seen an AN patient progress so rapidly. She is, in fact, a feisty lady, as has been said. She had an exam by a physical therapist this afternoon, and they were able to get her to have double vision with some of their eye exercises, though, so I'll have to correct my earlier claims about that.

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: yardtick on April 09, 2009, 03:19:53 pm: Glad to hear Nancy's surgery was successful.

Anne Marie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on April 09, 2009, 03:32:48 pm: Congratulations on "rockin' it", I knew you would. Take care, both of you, sounds like you're off to a good start on recovery.
Marci
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lori67 on April 09, 2009, 03:54:25 pm: Did we mention that the first day sucks? :-\ Sorry, no nicer way to phrase it. But I'll bet tomorrow will be much, much better. Great to hear she's up and walking! She'll be walking right out the door before you know it!

Lori
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 09, 2009, 03:57:26 pm: Woo Hoo, up and walking on the day after surgery, Go Nancy!!! Thinking about you both...
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 09, 2009, 05:33:43 pm: Hi all,

Nancy wants to know about the bandage on her head. It's tied really tight and keeps creeping down over one eye, so it's a real source of irritation. The nurse seems to think it will need to stay on for 5 or 6 days. Any similar experiences, anyone?

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nteeman on April 09, 2009, 05:37:17 pm: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 09, 2009, 05:33:43 pm
Hi all,

Nancy wants to know about the bandage on her head. It's tied really tight and keeps creeping down over one eye, so it's a real source of irritation. The nurse seems to think it will need to stay on for 5 or 6 days. Any similar experiences, anyone?

Dave
Dave,

I believe they changed my bandage the day after surgery. The next day they removed it completely. And that was the end of having a bandage on my incision.

Send my best wishes to Nancy.

Neal
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 09, 2009, 05:39:59 pm: Yup,

I had the whole bandage pain in the butt too...it starts to squash your eye, a real pain. After a couple of days I started stretching it a bit so I could push it up a little away from my eye. My op was on Wednesday and they cut the bandage off on Sunday. Such a relief I can't tell you. By about Saturday I was starting to feel a bit itchy underneath the bandage too which was annoying.

Is Nancy's throat still sore? Mine was a bit sore for a few days from the tube and I did tiny little coughs because I thought my brains might spill out if I did a big cough! I was really craving a toasted english muffin and once I got one, well... bliss! They're quite scratchy little buggers and so when you swallow a piece it kind of scratches your throat which was a nice feeling!

All in all sounds like Nancy is absolutely caning the recover which is great! Her experiences so far are on a par with mine pretty much.

Give her my love and tell her she'll be hurtling round the corridors there in no time!

xx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 09, 2009, 06:22:37 pm: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 09, 2009, 05:33:43 pm
Hi all,

Nancy wants to know about the bandage on her head. It's tied really tight and keeps creeping down over one eye, so it's a real source of irritation. The nurse seems to think it will need to stay on for 5 or 6 days. Any similar experiences, anyone?

Dave

Hi Dave and Nancy,

My bandage did the EXACT same thing! It was slipping down over my eye, and eventually the sticky part was on my eyebrow as well. I had surgery on a Thursday and the bandage came off (we took it off) on Sunday. They wanted us to try to keep it on until then, so we did. I lost many eyebrow hairs that day. I had some double vision too, but I don't know if it was from the surgery or the bandage squishing down on my eye :).

I must say, it sounds like Nancy is progressing very similarly to the way I did. I didn't have the cough or loss of apetite, so I was eating subway subs for lunch the day after surgery :). I was told I'd have to stay another night in ICU when no regular rooms opened up. At that point, my doctor came in and I asked him if I could go home. Luckily, he said "absolutely you can".

I had to 1) be able to manage pain with oral meds (I wasn't having lots of pain). 2) be able to walk. 3) Be able to urinate after removing the catheter (That IV drip was flowing right through me anyway). and 4) Keep food down, which was no problem.

I'm so glad that Nancy is doing well! I know she is having some discomfort, because we all remember our first few days, but would rather forget them :). Once the bandage is off and she's been home for a few days, she'll start feeling much better.

Thanks for keeping us updated and don't forget to gets some sleep yourself too! :)

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 09, 2009, 06:30:32 pm: Nancy says her throat feels ok now. She's eating stuff now, especially the nice fruit they have here. She agrees that grapes are very good.

Thanks, all, I'm shutting down for the night.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on April 09, 2009, 09:04:51 pm: CONGRATULATIONS NANCY on a successful surgery. I knew you would rock it!
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on April 10, 2009, 02:11:50 am: Great to hear things are going well. Nice that she has a room with a view. I used to play softball in a league at that park....worked right around the corner from MGH. If you folks like Thai food...when Nancy is released from the hospital there is a little place on Cambridge St in the little plaza across from the firestation called Siam Cafe...great Pad Thai and Green Curry....or a trip to the north end is always good for some feel good food.... ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: TaraT on April 10, 2009, 03:43:58 am: Nancy,

I am glad to hear that you are doing so well. Prayers sent for a continued quick recovery. Tara
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 10, 2009, 08:47:23 am: Good morning all,

Today Nancy is better in some respects, worse in others. The Drs. looked her over this morning and gave her a House-Brackman scale rating of 3 because she was showing some facial effects, definitely much more visible than the last two days. Her smile is a bit off, and she says she can only close the affected-side eye if she closes both eyes. She gets double vision looking towards the non-AN side. They expect that stuff to be temporary, especially since she did so well right after surgery. They changed her bandage this morning, much higher on her face, so much less uncomfortable. She's more energetic and rested today, did some walking with me, and the nurse says she may get discharged tomorrow because she's doing so well. I'm going to see if I can get this laptop over where she can easily look at it this morning so she can read all your kind words. She's a bit worried she won't be able to focus well enough to read it, but we'll see.

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cin605 on April 10, 2009, 08:56:14 am: Thanks for the Updates...wishing her an awsum recovery..its a beautiful day her in N.H.....even more so that shes done w/ the hard part.
cin
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on April 10, 2009, 09:00:01 am: Hi Dave,

Thanks for the new update. I would expect the double vision to wear off in a few days, it usually does. The temporary facial effects can take a while, as I am sure Nancy knows. It is important to be sure the affected eye is cared for with eye drops if there is any chance it is drying out. I'm glad to hear she is feeling better and walking around more; getting discharged tomorrow would be great news. Overall a "no surprises" result, which is what we like to hear.

Take care, and give our best to Nancy.

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 10, 2009, 09:18:18 am: Hi Dave (and Nancy if you are reading this),

I didn't have facial weakness until one night at home, I was washing my hands, looked in the mirror, and my AN side looked "drooped". I smiled, and first the non-AN side went up, then the AN side responded late. I was freaked out, but also tired, so I went back to bed. The next morning, it was all but gone, and by the end of the day, gone for good.

The length of time to recover will depend, of course, on how much the nerve was agitated. I'll bet in your (her) case it won't last too long, and you'll be your (she'll be her) smiling self in no time.

That's great news about being released tomorrow. I'm not sure if you're the Easter celebrating type, but if so, it will be good to be home where Dave can cook a nice Easter Dinner with all the fixins! ;D

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on April 10, 2009, 10:57:03 am: Dave:

Thanks again for the comprehensive update. You've done a good job of keeping us informed and it's appreciated.

Nancy ~

I trust any deficits you're experiencing will be temporary. They often are, especially when the nerves are intact. Don't push yourself too hard but just 'listen to your body', which is probably telling you it's almost time to be discharged. ;)

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 10, 2009, 12:53:37 pm: Dave and Nancy,

Glad to hear you may be going home soon! There's no place like home! :)

Remember, slow and easy wins the race. Both of you... get your rest!

Scarlett & Richie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lauralynn on April 10, 2009, 05:10:55 pm: Hello Dave and Nancy,

Dave, thanks so much for keeping us up to date on Nancy's progress. Nancy, you hang in there sweetie. You are doing great! I hope they will discharge you tomorrow....nothing like the comforts of home! Talk to you soon.

Love Always,
Laura (Your AN Buddy)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 10, 2009, 09:40:10 pm: Hi Dave and Nancy,
I'm glad you're getting to go home soon. It's encouraging to hear about your recovery. I hope the double vision / facial issues get better soon. Hope your eye's alright. I have some trouble with that - I can emphathize. I hope your able to continue to get the right balance of rest and walking around a bit (but do rest a lot!)

Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Rich56 on April 11, 2009, 09:06:30 am: Hi Nancy and Dave,

Nancy,

Scarlett's been keeping me up to speed on your progress, since I've gone back to work (12 hour shifts) this week.

I'm so glad the surgery is behind you, and you can focus on your recovery. The wondering is over! Yeah :D ;D :) :D ;D :) You've come out the other side, let the healing begin. I hope you take the advise of the others, and listen to your body. Please...don't push it!

Dave,

I know the relief you feel....she's okay ;D Now, your the caregiver, it's important, especially in the beginning, not to fall behind on the meds., drink plenty of liquids, and eat fruits. I got up with Scarlett every 4 hours, some times it was every two hours, and kept a log of when she took her meds. The percoset was every 4 hours, and the decadron and valium every 6. We kept the decadron and the valium at 12 and 6, which put the percocet at 2, 6, and 10. After a number of days, Scarlett tried to cut back on the meds and paid for it, though at some point you have to. Remember, plenty of liquids, and fruit!!

You've been so great with the updates, thank you.

Scarlett and I wish you both the best, and a speedy/comfortable recovery ;D ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lori67 on April 11, 2009, 11:48:52 am: And chocolate! ;D

Lori
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lauralynn on April 11, 2009, 01:43:35 pm: I agree with Lori! ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: CROOKEDSMILE on April 11, 2009, 04:18:41 pm: and if you had a feeding tube down your nose into your gut like I did for a month then you could even pour a little red wine down the tube with a water flush. Umm, Umm good. Not that I could taste it so the cheap stuff was fine....... OR (since I wasn't supposed to have anything in my mouth because my swallowing was paralyzed and they feared lung aspiration....I choked on my own spit!) I did get creative when guests came over for dinner and I wanted to join in a little toast.....stick it in a medicine dropper and teeny tiny drops on the tongue! Would take months to get a buzz that way but the flavor was to die for after a month of nothing to eat or drink.
By the way..........None of this is recommended for my dear AN friends.
Angie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 11, 2009, 04:23:03 pm: Hi all,

Haven't been connected to a computer 'til now, so sorry to keep you in suspense. We just got back home an hour or so ago, and Nancy is doing great! She kept her eyes shut for most of the two hour+ drive, because she's still having some double vision issues and didn't want to risk losing her lunch in the car. She has only been having a little tylenol for occasional headache - she refused the percocet prescription because she's mostly headache-free. As a migraine sufferer myself, I'm just amazed at how lucky she is in that respect. I think her face is already doing noticeably better than yesterday, probably partly because the doctors upped her steroid dosage a bit, and are having her wean off it on a slower schedule now. I'm recharging the camera battery now so we will try to get some more pictures for you soon. I'm guessing she will be the next one writing to you unless the focusing on writing is still too much of a challenge, so if I don't write again, I want to thank you all personally for the incredible support and concern you have for each other and for all the kind words and advice you have given us. You're all a bunch of inspiring, admirable people. I wish you could all have an outcome as good as Nancy's looks like it will be!

Dave
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 11, 2009, 05:18:25 pm: Here's Nancy right after the 9 hour operation. http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/JustWokeUp.jpg Can't really see any facial weakness, The slightly discolored, swollen lip was from biting her lip a day or so before.

Here she is 3 days later, just got back home. http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/3DaysAfter.jpg You can see how her smile lifts one side a lot more than the other. This was maybe even a little more pronounced the day before this picture.

d
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 11, 2009, 05:22:33 pm: (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/JustWokeUp.jpg)

(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/3DaysAfter.jpg)

Sorry - here they are so they appear without clicking the links.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 11, 2009, 05:30:29 pm: For Seal:

Nancy's advice to others going to Mass. General: get out of there as soon as possible, and have the filet of sole if it's on the menu.

Best of luck!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on April 11, 2009, 05:46:30 pm: The quizzical expression in the eyes in the first pic is priceless. "I just woke up from a nap, and they did what to my head?"

Showing teeth is a good sign, and the delay of the facial issue should mean that it is temporary. It may even clear up quickly as the swelling goes down. She certainly looks like she is recovering well. It's great that you are home already.

Take care, Dave, and thanks for the updates. We look forward to hearing from Nancy herself soon. Drop by anytime. :)

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 11, 2009, 06:26:57 pm: Nancy you look fantastic!!! Your bandage looks just like mine did! I'm putting money on the steroids sorting out the temp paralysis just as they sorted out my eye.

I'm so pleased you look so great!

Yay!!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: suboo73 on April 11, 2009, 07:17:24 pm: Dave and Nancy,

Dave - thank you for the updates! I am always on 'the edge of my seat' until i see the good news that all is well after surgery.
Thanks again for keeping us informed. Now enjoy being home and get some rest yourself! Caregivers are the best!

Nancy - you look great! WOW! 8)
Glad to hear your are home and can enjoy some time with your hubby while resting and continuing your pampering!.
Take care and rest. You deserve it.

Sincerely,
Sue
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on April 11, 2009, 09:29:47 pm: Great news...happy to hear you're home. Rest well!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lauralynn on April 12, 2009, 02:30:03 am: Hey Nancy! You look great! I'm so glad to hear that you are home! ;D I received the "Magic Scarf" today. Tell Dave thank you for me.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 12, 2009, 06:19:03 am: just pm'ed this to laura but might as well broadcast to all you well wishers
thx so much for all the positive vibes sent into the OR

first email out of me to anyone, have to hold reading glasses and type with one hand, so . . .
coming thru
i really believe in everyone different now
no headache, no pain other than hospital annoyances
but whoa the double vision, don't even think about spinning around, don't look at anything in brightly lit natural or artificial light
no restrictions other than what i asked them about since i'd heard of them from forumites, oddly
i'm trying to type without glasses now so it's faster but blurry
won't be able to drive forever as far as it seems right now
my mind seems in tact but my face looks horrible, droopy smile, starting to get a little numbmess around right outside jaw line, woke up for 2 am steroid feeding and discovered scratchy sensation in eye so thinking of getting rx for eye gel to protect it at night while i am relaxed and not voluntarily keeping it closed
hopeful extended steroid taper will resolve swelling causing facial stuff
also can't open non an eye with opening an eye so that's weird, walking is okay but i live where there is no such thing as even ground, not even a mall, so we'll see how that goes
hopeful
you're younger so i'm very optimistic for you
let me know that you get the scarf
i'll mail out journal asap, family descending today to see if they can totally wear me out!!!!
deep breath
they really liked the muffins, first thing they mentioned as i awoke in the OR, no space in the recovery inn so skipped up to icu
some big blood pressure drop that required removal of dave, but i have only brief awareness of it
anyway thx again!!!! :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on April 12, 2009, 06:42:23 am: Hey Nancy,
You are doing great! All will resolve in time, and you'll be back to yourself. Don't let the fam wear you, take lots of naps.
Hugs,
Marci
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Cheryl R on April 12, 2009, 07:31:58 am: Hi Nancy, You are doing well even though we know how one sure doesn't think so at the time. A good 2 weeks helps and slowly onward. It does sound like you need some eye goop. My favorite for daytime use is Refresh Liquigel. One sometimes ends up trying more than one to see as some with preservastives bother some. it didn't me. Then a heavy gel for night time. I used saran wrap then over the eye and used some gel around the edge to hold it. That too takes experimenting and depends on how bad the eye is. Others do it different. I remember with my first surgery having blurry vision so couldn't read the newspaper for a couple weeks. Made life not normal!
I live in the country and uneven ground really bothers me with now having the other surgeries due to NF2. I am close enough to towns and a mall and that does help me keep on the long term balance issue.
Hang in there, as life does get better. Looks like you live in such a neat area!
Cheryl R
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 12, 2009, 08:00:44 am: Tried to call neurotologist for rx for eye gel and drops but not there, so have to wait for tomorrow. Pharmacy said never heard of Aquagel OTC or rx. Eye is really annoying!!!
Will try to find drops in mean time. Will Dave's soft contact lens drops work?
Thanks.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on April 12, 2009, 08:09:48 am: Send Dave to the pharmacy and try to get GenTeal drops. The moderate to severe variety will work until you can get something else. The soft contact drops will not do the job really but probably better than nothing for now. Good luck.
Marci
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on April 12, 2009, 08:15:48 am: Hey, Nancy! You look just great in the pics! Glad you're home, as I know you are...curious, is the second picture when you're at home? But you still have the head gear on?

I used Refresh Plus for my eye - that's what they had in the hospital and I continued to use it for about 6 weeks or so (about the length of my temporary facial weakness). Think a lot of folks here also use the Refresh...there are a couple of other OTC things as well. My optometrist actually did put me on a prescript, but I don't know that it really did anything for me...

Take it easy - keep walking a bit, but do still take lots of naps!

Cindy

ps - I finally got on the river in a quad...had a coach w/ us to keep the boat stable, but it was great! I know you'll be back on the water very soon!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Cheryl R on April 12, 2009, 08:16:38 am: The eye drops and gels are all over the counter products at any drug store. Of course with today being a holiday makes it hard. Even some grocery stores may carry them in their drug aisle. The contact solution would not be a good thing to use. Do you have any just light weight eye drops like Visine as they would help some. I have frequently mentioned having an eye product ahead of time to new surgicals but haven't lately.
Cheryl R
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 12, 2009, 08:49:07 am: Hey, get that hat photo up, Marci.
I've got family out the wazoo headed over now and call coming in from son in Scotland any minute, but as soon as the air clears, I'll send him packin'!
The eye drop info is awesome. Thanks, all you guys! I love this forum.
I'm so glad you're out of that silly barge, Cindy. It's hard work pulling a four, easier with the eight since less boat to tote per rower, but ah, the singles, just wait! I watched them rowing in pairs from the hospital window as I believe Dave mentioned. I thought they were rowing so well together until I realized it was my double vision.
Oops! Gotta get out of the jammies.
Oh, Mom is a 90-year old retired pediatrician and eager to remove headgear since they want it on for 4 to 5. Unfortunately, she wants to do the stitches as well, but I won't let her. Those come out the day after the brunch, so you'll all have a look. Maybe after the dumplings?
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 12, 2009, 09:08:03 am: Hi Nancy, you look great!

I'm a little late here as my parents are here visiting and we are keeping busy and eating a lot :). I'm sorry to hear about the eye issue, but hopeful that it will resolve itself soon.

Try to enjoy your time with your family, but as others have said, make sure you rest when you need it. Have Dave run interference for you for a while :). From now on, you will feel better each day. There may be some backwards days, but for the most part, it just gets better now.

Take care of yourself and update us when you have the energy,

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Seal on April 12, 2009, 09:55:36 am: Hey Nancy!

Great updates, and keep up the good progress. I'm sure that the eye thing will resolve quickly, and as they say, the balance will come back gradually as the brain re-adjusts to the new info. So this is like cyber space, tag team, neurosurgery! You're out, and I'm on deck! Keep up the progress, and next week we can compare notes on our recovery. I'll definitly go for the filet of sole, but what - NO LOBSTAH? I thought this was Bawston!!!

Best wishes,
Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on April 12, 2009, 10:08:54 am: Here's the hat photo as requested...
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 12, 2009, 10:57:02 am: That's better, Marci! ;D

Seal, I forgot to mention that the fresh fruit is also amazing. Don't get the muffins or pancakes as they get all gummy and try to choke you. The lemon ice is good for post op dehydration, too. I had to beg on my knees, well almost, for anything thing to get me out of the desert.
Good luck! Don't get there too early. The elevators aren't running before 5:30, and the security guard loved to tell us it was our fault for coming too early. And then you just lie on the gurney until 8 anyway, bored out of your mind.
Thinking of you! They were surprised that I knew of you.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 12, 2009, 11:56:26 am: Nancy, I am so happy to see you back around here!!!! You look fabulous in your pictures and the scarf is doing its magic. I think about you all the time. Don't let that family wear you out too much, they are there to help while you REST! And wear your pajamas all you want. Yesterday was the first day I wore clothes! ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lauralynn on April 12, 2009, 12:56:18 pm: Hey Nancy! I'm sending you a big hug! So glad to know that you are home and doing well. You look great! I hope the magic scarf works as well for me as it did for you. I love this forum too! So glad we all have eachother to lean on for support. I'm so paranoid of sleeping in on surgery day....I woke up today and thought it was the big day! I would have been 4 hours late for my appt.! Think I'll just stay up through Monday...have to leave at 4:00 am. Might as well stay in your jammies...you are going to take alot of naps anyways. Might as well be comfortable! Take care Sweetie and I will be in touch before Tuesday.

Love Always,
Laura
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on April 12, 2009, 01:37:06 pm: Hi, Nancy ~

Thanks for the frequent updates. They make for interesting reading, mostly due to the fact that you seem to be doing quite well. The photos were appreciated by all, I'm sure. I'm sorry you're having to deal with dry eye issues but trust that can be remedied, soon. I'm sure that a little time and possibly some steroids will combine to reduce any facial deficits. The double vison is almost always temporary (mine was). Dave has done a fine job of updating but it's good to see you posting on your own, even if it is a bit awkward for you right now. Although it may seem as if normalcy is a long way off, time passes quickly and you'll very likely enjoy a rapid recovery. I look forward to meeting you at the April 19th brunch in Worcester, MA. :)

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on April 12, 2009, 03:14:44 pm: Hi Nancy,

Nice to see you back - as a postie. :)

Take it easy for a little while, okay? I think you are going to be fine.

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: LisaP on April 12, 2009, 05:58:08 pm: Nancy,

So glad to hear that everything went well and that you are home. Thanks for the updates and you look "beautiful". Rest and keep us all posted on your recovery.

LisaP ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 12, 2009, 08:37:36 pm: Hi Nancy (and Dave),
So glad to hear from you both. I thought it was funny when you said you looked at the rowers in the boat and thought they were doing so great together and you realized it was your double vision. A week or two after my surgery, my sister was visiting and on her last night she drove us down into Wash, DC. I looked and wondered why they still had the Christmas lights up (in Feb - never mind that DC doesn't even put up Christmas lights)! My vision was so blurry and weird from the eye ointment and some double vision that I thought the regular street lights were fancy Christmas lights.
I hope you continue to recover and rest.
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 12, 2009, 08:46:18 pm: Nancy -

nice to see you back. I had double vision for a few days post op, then it went away. I'm confident yours will too.

Patience ;D

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: vossman on April 12, 2009, 10:22:16 pm: Nancy,

Glad to see that you are doing so well. Get lots of rest and don't do too much. I have to scold Anissa and tell her to take it easy quite often. Now that you are home your recovery will go much better -- nothing like being home even if it is kind of scary at first. Congratulations on becoming a postie and wishing you well for a speed recovery.

Chris
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Rich56 on April 12, 2009, 10:25:21 pm: Hi Nancy,

Glad your back in the game. Sorry that you are having a few extra issues to deal with. But, it sounds like you're in good spirits, and that's half the battle. Hope your family didn't wear you down too much. :)

Thinking of you,

Rich & Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 13, 2009, 01:05:17 am: Wow! Thanks for the continued well wishes. But do not tell a recovering AN surgical patient to slow down. We're on steroids, and the engines are firing all cylinders. We're high on life. We're survivors.
Five members of my family from VT and NH dropped by and required hostessing, feeding, cleanup and entertaining all afternoon. They let me run circles around them all the while telling me I shouldn't be doing anything. I'm doing just fine. Being outside on unguarded steps and paths is a little challenging, but I'm looking forward to a nice walk today.

Good news: Double vision is diminishing, can walk around at night in moonlight, no problem.

Bad news: Waking up in the night with irritated eye, will make it top priority for today, did research on eye gels and drops for pick up today. Constipation - did someone say magnesium chelate? Trying high fiber but perhaps because that is my normal diet, it is not helping.

Face lift failed.

Rich,
I'll check for Scarlett's update, but how is her pain level, neck, head?

Thank you, Everyone.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 13, 2009, 05:54:57 am: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 13, 2009, 01:05:17 am
Constipation - did someone say magnesium chelate?

Nancy -

constipation is a very common issue post op. Straining is not good - and should be avoided - if you know what I mean ;) I'm surprised your doc didn't suggest something OTC to help you deal with it. Try colace. Drinking lots of water also helps.

Good luck,

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 13, 2009, 06:29:08 am: Hi Nancy,

My goodness! You sure are doing an aweful lot so soon after surgery. I won't tell you to slow down, but eventually your body might :).

I had the same issues with the steroids. I couldn't even sleep much at night! I never did have to deal with constipation though.

I hope you see improvement with your eye and facial weakness soon! I imagine that can be quite irritating and annoying.

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Kaybo on April 13, 2009, 06:43:23 am: DAVE~
MAKE her sit down!! Seriously, Nancy, you may feel like the Energizer bunny right now (& I hope you are different) but you might pay double when you get off the steriods...PLEASE, take it easier!!

K
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on April 13, 2009, 08:41:57 am: Nancy McDonald on steroids. This should be fun. ;D

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 13, 2009, 08:46:37 am: Hey Nancy,

I have some painting that needs to be done if you run out of things to do there while you are still on your steroid buzz :).

Don't forget, it's in the 80s down here and sunny every day. ;)

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: ppearl214 on April 13, 2009, 08:55:05 am: ...and I just spoke to Gil (our chef!) for the brunch this Sunday! Had I seen this sooner, I coulda/shoulda REALLY given him a heads up on Nancy's potential hungry horrors from the 'roids for this Sunday!

Everyone will need to grab their apple dumplin's and hide 'em from Nan! ;)

(can't wait to see you there!)

Phyl :)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 13, 2009, 08:59:25 am: Well, Ernie et al., funny you should say that. First of all, Ernie, I thought you said it was 39 F in Riverview (I assume that's near Tampa.).
The last time I was on steroids was for five years after being diagnosed with high sed rate, i.e., inflammatory arthitis. I kept upping the dose because I wanted to be perfect. That summer I scrubbed and stained one side of the house (a lot of area) and by September my shoulder was killing me. Full width tear of rotator cuff . . . too much prednisone. So, I'll try to lay off the physical stuff this go 'round, thanks. But a trip to Tampa would be lovely. Dave's parents are there in Port Richey, and it snowed here yesterday!!!!
Just got mail, dog, bandage removed. Grand! Having a little morning tea with my new friend Harry London (truffle maker since 1922). Life is good! :)
Aaaaah! Phyl, your update just came in. Don't worry, I'm really trying to drop the ten I put on pre-op in case I woulda missed something yummy and then never know.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 13, 2009, 09:15:07 am: Hey Nancy,
Just checking in after not getting to the computer all weekend. Sounds like you are rebounding like mad!! That's terrific. I think of you often and am so glad things are going well. I hope to be following you to Mass General in the next couple of months. ;D

BTW, you are like a movie star now. Did you see how many views are on your post? Hundreds!! I'd get an agent, if I were you! ;D ;D ;D

Miss Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 13, 2009, 09:52:28 am: No, Molly, hadn't noticed actually. Dr. McKenna said that no one ever feels BETTER after AN surgery, but I sure do. Relief? Steroids? Spring? Je ne sais quoi!
I think right now, having experienced it, that I wouldn't hesitate at all, especially if it's translab. Are there fewer unpleasant outcomes with that approach?
n
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 13, 2009, 10:16:10 am: The 39 degrees was just for one morning, and it didn't take long to get back into the 80s :). Yes, Riverview is near Tampa (south a bit), and you guys are welcome anytime :).

It sounds like you're recovery is like mine. I didn't have much fatigue, just wanted to get up and go! :)

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 13, 2009, 10:47:57 am: Nancy,

Your making me dizzy trying to keep up with all your posts! ;D ;D ;D

Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 13, 2009, 09:52:28 am
Dr. McKenna said that no one ever feels BETTER after AN surgery, but I sure do. Relief? Steroids? Spring? Je ne sais quoi!
My vote is:
1. Relief
2. Steroids
3. WHAT SPRING? ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s 35 degrees out there!?! :(

IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m really glad youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re feeling so good. I canÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t wait to see you and everyone else at MaxwellÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s!

Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: ppearl214 on April 13, 2009, 11:16:38 am: My vote is:

1. Roids
2. Knowing you have a fab brunch coming up this Sunday!
3. Roids
4. R-E-L-I-E-F!
5. Roids

In that order! :)

See you Sunday!
Phyl
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 13, 2009, 11:51:25 am: Well, watch out because I just took a shot of Milk of Magnesia and that will spell R-E-L-I-E-F.
Just took the incision pic but too scared to look at it. Will upload pretty soon, so don't be eating next time you log on to my thread!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 13, 2009, 01:14:15 pm: WARNING! MAJOR SCAR PHOTO! WARNING! MAJOR SCAR PHOTO!
(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/scar.jpg)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on April 13, 2009, 01:19:46 pm: Nice scar, Nancy! "Enjoy" it while you can, it goes away very quickly!

Cindy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nteeman on April 13, 2009, 01:20:52 pm: Nice one! Wear it proudly.

;)

Neal
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 13, 2009, 01:21:19 pm: WOW! Now that's a scar :o - much longer than my retrosigmoid one.

Nancy -

watch out for fatigue - it will hit you when you least expect it.

As someone else said (Ernie ?) your body will let you know when it needs rest. But, don't ignore it. Listen to it, please! ;D

As for your question asking if translab has "fewer unpleasant outcomes" I'm not certain. All I can say is my outcome was very pleasant and I chose retrosigmoid. Didn't have any steroids except for one very small dose post op.

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on April 13, 2009, 01:42:09 pm: OOH yucky, gorey. I see dried blood in your ear! :o
That is impressive. You'll be able to show it off better since it is a little higher up from the ear. Mine went right along the ear line, so I can't really show it off now. Too hidden.
The recovery continues, one day at a time. Take it easy. Make sure you are pampered, or pamper yourself. Rest lots.
Books on tape are nice (or DVD) as well as calming nature CD's :)
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: ppearl214 on April 13, 2009, 01:42:29 pm: a battle scar well earned, to be displayed proudly! Actually, they did a great job on it! Looks terrific! I know them MGH/MEEI scars and "another one bites the dust!"

Nan, looks great! Onward, upward, yada-yada, blah blah! See you Sunday! Please hang in there and get some rest! :)

Phyl
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on April 13, 2009, 02:33:34 pm: Nancy ~

I braved your incision photo and survived, perhaps because like most of the folks reading/posting here, I've seen an AN incision scar, before. It was mine. :)

You're certainly energetic, and it seems to be part steroid-induced and partly just a desire to take control of your situation. I had a very similar reaction, post-op. If you don't have any set-backs, you should recover rapidly, as I did. I was driving within 2 weeks of my surgery - with my surgeon's permission. You'll probably have a similar experience and we'll cheer you on while you do. I hope any digestive tract imbalances will soon be corrected.

Thanks for your upbeat posts. Very encouraging to those contemplating surgery anytime soon.

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on April 13, 2009, 03:03:27 pm: Nice scar! The funny part was your banner warning came after I had opened the message with the picture. It was funny.

You look like you are healing really well. I'm also glad you are feeling it was worth it. I'm sure relief is a big part of it!! You look great!

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 13, 2009, 05:04:19 pm: OH Nancy!! I just took a big bite of spaghetti when I saw your scar!

Just Kidding! ;D ;D ;D

ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s a nice one indeed! Funny how we posties like showing off the scar! Wear it proudly, youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve earned it.

Scar...lett :D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lori67 on April 13, 2009, 05:39:48 pm: Nancy,

That is a very impressive badge of honor you have! And you've earned it!

I'm so glad you're home and doing well. I just knew you'd do great! If you plan on taking Ernie up on his offer to visit Florida, swing through Nashville on your way - I'll bet those steroids won't seem so strong after chasing my two little ones and two dogs around for a little while! Takes more than that to keep up with them! :D

Enjoy your family. They sound like mine - they come to take care of you and you wind up playing the hostess with the mostest.

Lori
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 13, 2009, 06:11:01 pm: Nancy, sounds like you going great guns! I had the same toilet issue as you when on the steroids. I tried a few different hard core remedies but none of them worked. The docs prescribed coloxyl senna which I had to take morning and night... it took a while but worked eventually... let me just say after 8 days I was starting to feel a bit uncomfortable and relief doesn't even go halfway to describe what I felt when the pills kicked in! Good luck!!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on April 13, 2009, 10:51:40 pm: Awesome to hear things are going so well. Maybe you should consider doing the Cape Cod Bay Challenge with us this year.... ;). Save some of those roids... ::)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 13, 2009, 11:51:14 pm: JB,
Thanks. I really needed that advice about now. I'll call first thing in the morning for a script call-in. I ate a whole artichoke last night. Where did it go? Well, I look like I'm going to have twins . . .

Stoneaxe,
You can't have any of my 'roids!

I didn't know they caused blockage, thought it was the anesthesia.
Just hope I don't have to repeat the course if that's what my problem is. Saw a little upturn on the right side of smile last night. But the septum? lists to port severely. Eye gel first time tonight, and it worked wonders, but it's a little blurry on the monitor.
Okay, time for 2 am 'roids.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 14, 2009, 07:18:23 am: Day 6 Post-op:
I'm really trying to get that nasty scar photo off the top of the page as well as post an update. Maybe this will do the trick.
Last night awarded more sleep as a result of the eye gel. When I was up for 2 am steroid feeding, I no longer felt the need to stay awake so I could voluntarily keep my eye closed.
Dave washed my hair in the kitchen sink, so I'm feeling more presentable.
Current symptoms are only major listing to starboard sitting and standing. No dizziness even with eyes closed, which surprises me. Right eye cannot close independently of left eye. Just looked in mirror and saw an almost horizontal attitude to my smile. The vertical lines extending below the septum still get pulled to the left though. Right eye lid drooping almost as much as left now (oh, goody!). SSD remains of course. Tinnitus seems about the same. Still wired on steroids but start taper on next dose.
And of course, constipation! Need to get some exercise today.
Much better than expected outcome. Thank you to my great team of surgeons, anaesthesiologists, and nurses! And thank you to my AN family for preparing me for this journey. I can't believe I'm on the other side.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: tsl on April 14, 2009, 09:10:11 am: Nancy,
I've been following your thread. Words that come to my mind to describe you are AMAZING, WOW, AWESOME. My little niece would say that YOU ROCK! My little nephew would rate you as WAY COOL with your scar.
As I said before, you and Dave make an unbeatable team.

Take care.
-Theresa (tsl)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 14, 2009, 09:30:31 am: Okay, I'm crying now. Happy tears. Thank you.
Could we please get the scar onto the previous page ASAP?
Love you guys,
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: CROOKEDSMILE on April 14, 2009, 09:40:20 am: Stoneaxe,
I didn't know if you were referring to ste"roids" or hemm"roids" since we were talking about medicine and constipation all in one post. I thought.........why wouldn't he be willing to give up those? (the 2nd one)
Anyway, do be careful with both. Need to taper off the steroids as prescribed (very important) and don't strain as you don't want hemmroids. They hurt! Got those after delievering 11 pound 7 ounce baby and they hurt worse than the delivery! Take fiber like Metamucil in OJ and Colace to soften the stools. Eat some prunes!
Angie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 14, 2009, 09:43:23 am: Scar is a goner to page 11! YAY! Might post a noice pic of mine today seeing as I'm so proud of it and it's now disappearing beneath the growing hair! I'm kind of sad. People come round to see how I am and I say hey, want to see my scar (as if it's some kind of badge of honour and something to be proud of!) and they kind of look at it and go, and?? It's disappearing and it's gruesomeness is disappearing with it. When it's not as obvious I just look like someone who can't walk properly and drank too much rather than someone who obviously has just had brain surgery a month ago. How sad!! Work the scar while you still can Nancy! Work it baby, own it!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: andrea in slc on April 14, 2009, 10:17:15 am: Nice scar Nancy! I had a matching one, but I got staples instead of nice stitches, so I had more of the Frankenstein thing working for me. ;) You are most definately rocking this! Whooo-hoooo! Now don't overdo, 'roids (ster) or not! I'm SO glad you are recovering as well as you are. Awesome!

Joebloggs, take pictures, quick! With pictures you have PROOF of how gruesome it looked, and you can work those for a few more months, trust me! ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 14, 2009, 01:41:35 pm: Just back from lunch with Dave's teenagers and showed them the scar. Trying to get as much exposure as possible! They were delighted with the workmanship but a little shocked, I do believe, at least the girl. But they're off to a heavy metal concert in Boston, so I can only imagine what they'll see there.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: elliemae on April 14, 2009, 02:12:33 pm: Nancy, just checking in after the long weekend break .... missed your picture, as it won't load on my work pc (!!!!!), but can't wait to see you on Sunday!

You certainly sound fabulous, but - take it easy!! You'll need energy to keep up with the brunchies !! ;D

Elaine
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on April 14, 2009, 07:39:28 pm: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 14, 2009, 01:41:35 pm
Just back from lunch with Dave's teenagers and showed them the scar. Trying to get as much exposure as possible! They were delighted with the workmanship but a little shocked, I do believe, at least the girl. But they're off to a heavy metal concert in Boston, so I can only imagine what they'll see there.

There's the answer....you should keep it shaved and put a stud or ring in each of the stitch holes....you'ld be huge at the heavy metal concerts.... ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NL on April 14, 2009, 08:23:19 pm: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 14, 2009, 09:30:31 am
Could we please get the scar onto the previous page ASAP?

Nancy,

I saw this post at the top of this page and had to go back one to look! Very impressive! I agree with others who said you have to show it off while you can - pretty soon you'll have to carry around a wallet-sized pic to prove you had brain surgery. ;)

I'm glad you're doing well and have so much energy (it can't ALL be the steroids :)), but hope you're getting in your quota of naps, too. (I thought my surgery somehow converted me into an early morning person...until I finished the steroids! :D)

Take care,

Nancy L
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 14, 2009, 10:08:32 pm: Well, I'm wide awake again. I still have a lot of energy and trouble relaxing and sleeping. Normally pretty hyper, but a little concerned that I'm not allowing myself to heal properly.
I, too, believe I may have had some kind of personality change. I feel so positive about everything, almost survival euphoria. I am normally optimistic, but realistic and pragmatic as well. This is almost like being given a second chance to start over and do it right. It is probably the steroids. I reacted a little like this before on prednisone. Anyway, as long as I don't have to function on a daily basis other than maintaining my senses and personal hygiene, it will be fine to continue to be sleep deprived.
I am beginning to understand that my life has changed. I used to climb ladders and jog around the uneven terrain, go out on the lake and do a lot of heavy lifting while living all by myself plus dog. I may have to be more careful. I feel slightly unbalanced toward my left, so tomorrow I'm going to put it to the test while my babysitter is still in place.
Do I understand correctly that I will be unable to drive at night for some period of time? I'm not having trouble walking around the house in the mostly dark at this point, no more than I had before surgery. The double vision is definitely gone. I can spin around in a slow circle with ease. Just curious about the new life ahead.
n
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Lilan on April 15, 2009, 06:53:16 am: I feel so positive about everything, almost survival euphoria.

I am sure that's true, both literally and steroidally :)

I also think it goes to show just how much of a psychological burden this is before it's dealt with. It's like you almost don't notice how much it's preying on your mind (almost literally) and sucking up so much of the oxygen of your life! Then once a decision is made and carried out, yielding a positive physical outcome as it did for you, you can focus on healing, being on an upward trend, and not wake up waiting for the other shoe to drop every day.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 15, 2009, 06:56:10 am: So, Nancy -

when do your docs plan to wean you off the steroids?

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 15, 2009, 07:36:44 am: Extended plan, but down to 2 mg @ 4 per day as of yesterday noon, then tapering totally to halves by Monday and Tuesday, done around Wednesday, I think.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on April 15, 2009, 08:16:03 am: Quote from: Nancy McDonald on April 14, 2009, 10:08:32 pm
Just curious about the new life ahead.

Nancy,
Hard to say. Everyone is different in their recovery and AN journey. That's why it's nice to keep in touch.
You are doing so great post op. I would imagine you may just have some balance issues when you get tired/stressed, as most people report.
And your energy- can you email me some????? :D :D :D Yes, it's probably the drugs for now.
I need some of that hyper energy!!!!
But then I've always been a low energy person, still trying to have fun and go with the flow though :)
The docs said it looked like my AN had been in there maybe 5-10 years too long, so I'm thinking that it was the culprit all along :-[ 0r partly.
Muareen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on April 15, 2009, 12:16:15 pm: I had that euphoria thing too, Nancy. And some grandiose thoughts of trying to save the world from all the injustices and miseries. Reality set in eventually, but I'd still like to knock out a few miseries here and there, if I could!

Yes, you will need to be careful for awhile and not climb ladders just yet. However, I am confident that there will not be much, if anything, that you were doing pre-surgery, that you won't be able to do again in time.

I didn't drive at night for the first four weeks or so, but mainly because I had also read that I shouldn't. When I finally did, it was not a problem...now walking around the bedroom at night without a light, is a different story :D

Try to be patient, ok! You are doing great!

Cindy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: lori67 on April 15, 2009, 03:44:06 pm: Wait, did I miss something? How did you turn into "FatHead"?

Lori
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 15, 2009, 03:49:30 pm: Changed profile! ;) How boring is my real name? When I rejoined after growth, I was all about just the facts, baby, now I'm a part of a huge family who care about me. And I'm on steroids.

When is it okay to be left alone at home and to not worry about falling and hitting your head? Is the hole large enough that it can't stand direct contact? Still numb to touch and stitches not out yet, but hoping that once they are on Monday, I could set my caregiver free.
Is it okay to have beer and wine in moderation? I'm limiting to half glass per day and haven't been on pain meds since leaving ICU six days ago.

Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 15, 2009, 04:44:38 pm: Quote from: FatHead on April 15, 2009, 03:49:30 pm
Is the hole large enough that it can't stand direct contact?

Why?? Are you planning on doing something dangerous?? :o :D

Everyone is different, but typically if you feel you're ready to "go it alone" you generally are. But remember the limitations I'm sure your doc mentioned to - no bending at the waist, no heavy lifting, etc. If you overdo it, you'll usually know it.

As for the drinking in moderation - I'd say it depends on the meds you're on. Pain killers would definitely mean no drinking - but that doesn't apply in your situation. I'm not sure about steroids and alcohol ??? You might want to check with your doc or the pharmacist.

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 15, 2009, 05:00:59 pm: I live on the edge. ;)
I had no limitations set. I asked if there was a weight limit, and they just shrugged and said probably 10 pounds for two weeks. I asked if I should refrain from bending over. He said I should probably just bend down at the knees, keeping head elevated to reach for things below. No time frame on that one.
There was no written material even though I asked if they would please write it down for me and they agreed.
No mention on the slip with the steroids about alcohol use, so . . . I'll just enjoy a little in the early evening.
Thanks.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 15, 2009, 05:01:38 pm: Nancy you are cracking me up! I feel like such a slowpoke next to you, I'm dreading "setting my caregiver free", I've had someone with me almost nonstop for 3 weeks! Glad to hear you are doing so well!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 15, 2009, 07:55:06 pm: Hi Fathead(loving the new name!),

I told my carer Sarah to get out of the house and get her Mum a birthday present and so was alone for a few hours about day 8 I think. I was fine - I just had a snooze! Not too sure about booze. I was told one drink would feel like 6 after surgery so I'm not drinking. I decided actually in hospital, while the room was spinning and I was throwing up, that I might not drink any more. Usually about once a year I tend to overnindulge at a party or something and end up in a spinning room and I thought geez, why would anyone bring this feeling on themselves!

xxx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on April 15, 2009, 08:32:10 pm: Quote from: joebloggs on April 15, 2009, 07:55:06 pm
I decided actually in hospital, while the room was spinning and I was throwing up, that I might not drink any more.

Funny, JB :D

This reminds me of my post op experience. One of my docs stopped by to see how I was doing and I told him between the spinning room and the throwing up I was having a flashback to the last time I was good and drunk - back in college :P We both had a pretty good laugh about that one ;D

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on April 15, 2009, 09:57:32 pm: I can't believe how well you are doing. Your energy just seems off the charts. Great that the double vision has stopped. I'll be very interested to follow your balance.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 16, 2009, 02:56:33 am: Quote
why would anyone bring this feeling on themselves!

JB, When you get back to the UK, could you please ring up my son at uni? I'll give you his cell. Oh, and Katie says all good with Chicago.

I didn't puke in the hospital, except for the excessive lemon ice, ice chip, cranberry, apple juice post-op all-nighter (I love you, nurse Loreen, for indulging my cravings that night!) followed by the poisonous powdered eggs.
And right now I can do a spin and walk around in the moonlight. So, there's no drunken sensation at all. :'(

aka Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 16, 2009, 07:06:19 am: Quote from: FatHead on April 16, 2009, 02:56:33 am
JB, When you get back to the UK, could you please ring up my son at uni?

Ya no worries, I should be back on the juice by then - I'll teach him to drink like a Tasmanian!!! Ha ha ha ha! Poor wee boy.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on April 16, 2009, 08:43:59 pm: Quote from: joebloggs on April 16, 2009, 07:06:19 am
Quote from: FatHead on April 16, 2009, 02:56:33 am
JB, When you get back to the UK, could you please ring up my son at uni?

Ya no worries, I should be back on the juice by then - I'll teach him to drink like a Tasmanian!!! Ha ha ha ha! Poor wee boy.

He's studying scottish history and wears a kilt....you might have you're work cut out for you JB! Scotsmen have a bit of a reputation to uphold... ;)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 16, 2009, 08:58:55 pm: See that's where it could all go horribly wrong... my dad is Scottish, therefore not only do I drink like a Tasmanian... but a Tasmanian with Scottish blood... dreadful combination!!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 16, 2009, 11:59:34 pm: Oh, geesh, stay away from my poor boy! ;D ;D
He does have a softer side, however, teaching himself to make sushi whilst studying for exams, although engrossed in NHL playoffs simultaneously.
Home in six weeks for three months. Can't wait!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 17, 2009, 12:59:21 am: Ha ha... I was just kidding Nancy! Honest!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 19, 2009, 06:32:13 am: Well, I really should be getting attired for the brunch, but I remembered that I had never read back through the surgery and post-op posts on my thread. So, I did, and I started to tear up (in my good eye, anyway). You all were such wonderful support to my friend Dave when he had no idea what to imagine was going on. Thank you.
However . . . . it was the first time I'd heard the version that I actually did have some facial weakness immediately post-op, so we'll sort that out tomorrow with whomever removes my sutures. Hmmmmm . . . . They said I had good facial response post-op. I thought that meant perfect! Oh, well.
Off to the brunch in a few.
Love you all,
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 19, 2009, 06:55:15 am: Have a good time today! Sounds like it'll be a good time xxx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on April 20, 2009, 09:20:31 am: Hi Nancy,
Hope you were able to enjoy your brunch, and hope your doc appt went good too.
Will be interested to hear what they say about your temporary paralysis.
Since your nerve is intact, you should see improvement, but it might be slow.
Hang in there :'(
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 20, 2009, 11:12:46 am: We're just back from Boston where I had my sutures removed. Both Dr. McKenna and his fellow Dr. McCall, MEEI neurotologists, were in attendance. Dr. McCall looked at me and said I looked worse than when I was in the hospital. Gee, I even dressed to impress! They stated emphatically that my face will regain its function, perhaps months from now. I should begin to see a change in a matter of weeks with my eye issues. I told them I was holding them to it!
The doctors said that my balance was not an issue because it was good post-op, so just walking around should cure the leaning to good side sensation.
And there will be one, three, five, ten, fifteen, and twenty-five-year MRIs. Apparently, even with total tumor removal, there is a chance of regrowth.
My caregiver Dave has packed his computer and belongings to return to his business and own home, so I'm on my own with orders to behave myself. The doctors said I could begin to lift and bend over in a few weeks and drive the lawn tractor. I drove my car the last twenty miles home from Boston, and it only felt as unpleasant as when I get my eyes dilated at the eye doctor and have to drive on a sunny day.
Tomorrow is the big hair wash day, perhaps even a nice soak in the tub.
I feel as though I have reached a major milestone in my progress.
Dr. Barker will do his post-op assessment on May 21.
I feel like saying THE END, but that would be too sad.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 20, 2009, 11:52:24 am: PS - I asked Dr. McKenna what causes tinnitus since Dave has it as well. He replied that it is the brain's attempt to turn up the volume when there is hearing loss, sort of like trying to find sound with bad speakers. Of course, I've reinterpreted whatever he actually said.

And, we shot the first in a planned series of mug shots to watch for facial expression improvement.
For now, I'm humming "I'm Popeye, the Sailor Man. Toot! Toot!"
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: tenai98 on April 20, 2009, 02:02:04 pm: Hey Nancy
Had stitches removed today as well...As for driving neurosurgeon doesnt ok it til 6 weeeks post op...that is ok by me being a driving instructor I know the perils of driving when mentaly impairement...it can be worse than drunk driving. I am going to book a day at the spa for sometime in May...TNen in July I want to fly to Edmonton Alberta and see my granddaughter for the first time..She is now three months...But best of all a week b4 my surgery,my son came home from his tour in Afganistan...
JO ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 20, 2009, 02:21:10 pm: Oh, JO, that's the best gift any mother could ask for. I've got goosebumps all over. I'm so pleased for you on so many levels. You must be euphoric even without steroids!
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 20, 2009, 05:45:01 pm: Hi Nancy,
Glad you got your stitches out today. That helps the way your head feels, I believe. Hey when I took the red line T today, I went by MGH and thought of you all who had surgeries there!
Currently I'm sitting in NH waiting for my flight back to MD. It was nice to meet you yesterday and no, you're not allowed to say 'the end!" you need to stay around !! ( I know you will). Where did Dave go back to? Let us know about his 'gig' on CBS or Good Morning America or whatever it is so we can watch too!

Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 20, 2009, 07:46:18 pm: Hi, Keri.
Hope you had a positive experience in Boston. It was vibrating with sports activities and enthusiasm all weekend.
Dave just lives a half hour south of me in Laconia, not far.
I'll try to remember to post when I have the exact date, but he'll be on CBS Sunday Morning either on May 3 or 10 (9 am ET) for his redesign of the Porter Garden telescope. His website is nugentpatterns.com. The telescope is linked to his site or you can go to gardentelescopes.com. It's the 400th anniversary of the telescope this year, apparently. Mind you, when they were filming, they didn't get to him until very late in the day, and he was totally fried. They may have to cut out any images of him. ;D
Loved meeting you, and safe home.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 20, 2009, 09:55:50 pm: Hey Nancy,

Great update! Isn't it funny how docs will say things without thinking about how they could be taken out of context? Oh, like maybe, "you look worse than you did..." ;D

I'm sure your doctors are right in that you will make a full recovery, but I am sorry that you have to go through this period facial weakness. I only wish the hearing nerve could bounce back over time the way the facial nerve does :).

I will keep praying for rapid improvements for you! (And I won't bring my bass boat to your lake) :)

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 07:32:29 am: (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/face20apr09.jpg)

Two Week Update

Meds: Last .5 mg decadron will be tomorrow morning. I know Steve has been looking forward to that milestone.
Sleep: Finally slept all night for the first time in two weeks after an evening out at the pub session. Thanks go to Sir Guinness and Lord Bailey.
Pain: None since 28 hours post-op other than the minor headaches of a hospital roommate who watched TV while talking on her cell phone (often while her husband was also talking on his cell phone), complaining about how well she takes care of herself and it's the fault of her boss overworking her that she had a mini-stroke, all while the smoking cessation counselor suggests she give up the pleasures of smoking to prevent the aneurysm in her brain from exploding.
Digestive system: All good after Miralax for five days.
Balance: Fine except when I am sitting I have to fight from leaning toward my good side. Even showering for the first time yesterday with my eyes closed was a non-issue, except for the wee bit of water entering the almost closed eye.
Driving: Seems fine except for minor change in AN side peripheral vision. No head turning issues.
Tinnitus: Worse.
Hearing: Although my hearing was deemed invalid pre-op, I have no sense of anyone or anything on my AN side. I believe I used to at least be somewhat aware of sounds or activity. It could be the diminished peripheral vision associated with facial weakness again or actually reduced hearing.
Face: Well, there's only one word that suits, and Phyl would have her way with that before I could even post it.
Functional issues: Eating and drinking are a challenge. Taking small bites, chewing carefully, sipping with the expectation of dribbles from vessel and mouth. Some speech issues. Also, straining vocal chords to be heard for some reason. Perhaps some residual intubation issues.
Eye: Gel gets me through the night. Irritation occurs periodically during the day, requiring me to hold down my eye lid or to close my eyes and take a break.
Incisions: Fat graft incision is all overhanging, blobby and nasty red scar. I try to avoid looking at it. I'll get a photo of head scar soon.
Mental state: It seems my nerves are all on the surface, ready receptors to input. No sugar-coating anything any more. Take everything at face value. What you give me is what I receive and respond to. Except if you say nice things, I might not believe you and even think you are being unkind to lie.
This too shall pass.
The support of this forum was and is my most valuable asset going in, coming out, and from here forward.
I have been extremely fortunate to date.
Thank you, All.
And Happy Earth Day! Do something nice for your other mother today!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on April 22, 2009, 09:08:17 am: I'm sure it is because I am on the forum too much, but I am starting to like the pirate smile. It lends a touch of character to an AN veteran. ;)

The eye foo and the eating foo don't sound like fun, though. I hope your facial nerve issue proves to be reasonably temporary, and not protracted. Even as the steroids wear off, you sound like you are in pretty good shape overall. You made it through, Nancy. Now you can get on with living.

Enjoy the spring and summer in NH. 8)

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on April 22, 2009, 02:21:42 pm: Nancy ~

Thanks for the comprehensive update - and photo. Although you definitely have some challenges, you seem to experiencing a reasonably good recovery and remain in good spirits. Of course, I join everyone else in hoping the facial nerve deficits will be strictly temporary.

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 22, 2009, 02:40:09 pm: Quote from: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 07:32:29 am
Sleep: Finally slept all night for the first time in two weeks after an evening out at the pub session. Thanks go to Sir Guinness and Lord Bailey.

Woohoo! I bet it felt good to sleep all night for a change, even if it was with those two other guys! ;)

Quote from: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 07:32:29 am
Driving: Seems fine except for minor change in AN side peripheral vision. No head turning issues.

I'm so jealous! I turn my head side to side more than once and I feel like I'm going to pass out!

Quote from: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 07:32:29 am
Face: Well, there's only one word that suits, and Phyl would have her way with that before I could even post it.

Hehe, I'd pay money to see her reaction though! :). I am sorry that you have to deal with the facial issues, but will continue to pray that they resolve quickly and completely for you.

Quote from: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 07:32:29 am
Take everything at face value. What you give me is what I receive and respond to. Except if you say nice things, I might not believe you and even think you are being unkind to lie.

Well, I understand that, but I will not ever lie to you or anyone on this forum. Heck, I try not to ever lie period. It's true what Steve said about the pirate smile. We here on the forum are kind of used to seeing it, so there is certainly no shock value there. I think you look great, but I too would rather you have your old look back. Not to make it "better" or "easier" for me to look at you, it doesn't do that. I want you to get it back so YOU can feel better.

Quote from: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 07:32:29 am
Fat graft incision is all overhanging, blobby and nasty red scar. I try to avoid looking at it. I'll get a photo of head scar soon.

Ewww... That just doesn't sound right :). Looking forward to the pic of the head scar though.

Quote from: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 07:32:29 am
Happy Earth Day! Do something nice for your other mother today!

Hmm...what could I do today ???. Maybe I'll water the petunias, they look a little dry :). Happy Earth Day! I am big into the environment as well, and believe I try to do my part to keep the earth clean and green for the next generation.

Hope you get to feeling better (emotionally) soon!

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 03:21:39 pm: Darn, Ernie, you made me get all teary eyed. You should be in counseling, not weather.
Steroid taper has sapped the energy. And oh, the tinnitus has kicked in.
I spent the day working in the garden, napping, working in the garden, napping, working in the garden, and now it's time for a cold one and guacamole. Ole, ole, ole!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 22, 2009, 04:23:57 pm: Darlingest Nancy,

You look great I think - ready to take on the world 'roid free! Whoop whoop for that! Do you find you can't open your mouth that far to take big bites? I found that - I could only take tiny bites for a few weeks because my jaw wouldn't open that far... unfortunately all that is changed and my mouth is now as big as ever! The days of the tiny bite diet are over!! I know progress for you will keep happening, particularly over the next little while so you'll be in great spirits and your kilted boy will come back which will be even better! So much to look forward to!!

xxx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nancyann on April 22, 2009, 05:08:03 pm: Hi there Nancy: I am so happy to see that the eye on your 'weakened' face side looks nothing like mine did.
My eye had a 'skeletal' look, wide open - yours does not. Also, you still have tone on the paralyzed side.
Be patient, patient, patient, because your face will come back.

For this we do the puppy dance, but I don't know how to get the puppy - Capt. Deb does ! !

Always good thoughts, Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 05:14:43 pm: Oh, be careful with those kilted boy references, JB. They pull the heart strings.
I was just going to PM you that they had Tasmania on the evening news regarding the acidification of the ocean and its effect on the coral reefs. It is a beautiful, varied landscape. Suddenly, I remembered that some years ago, my daughter knitted a sweater for the fairy penguins on the Tasmanian coast (if I remember correctly) that had been harmed by an oil spill. The problem was that the insulation value of their feathers was reduced by the oil coating, so they needed sweaters to keep themselves warm. They had to be wool so that they would biodegrade and fall of in time. Katie knitted a beautiful magenta and yellow striped jumper and mailed it off.
And yes, I am on the small bite diet. The insides of my lips are being macerated by my teeth. I am glad to know that it will improve soon. I didn't notice your having any problem with the giant cake in Melbourne, darlin'. ;)

Nancyann and all,
The words of encouragement that are issued almost hourly here are the potion that powers my recovery. I'm glad you see tone. I guess it's all relative. I'll believe!
Thank you.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 22, 2009, 05:25:06 pm: That's so cute! I can imagine them all walking around with little jumpers on! Ha ha ha! I'm sure the little penguin who got the jumper really appreciated it - I'm surprised he didn't send a thank you note. Rude bastard!!! As for the giant cake... yes... my little mouth had improved vastly by the time the giant cake came around! Can I just point out that I used a fork when I ate it!!!

xxx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: CROOKEDSMILE on April 22, 2009, 05:26:47 pm: Nancy,
I am leaving soon for the beach for a lovely vacation with the family but I woke up thinking about you this morning and wanted to send you a message of hope. I saw your picture. You still have the crease from your nose to your mouth, your eye still has some tone and you had delayed facial palsy everything pointing to a full recovery based on my research. (which has been pretty extensive in the facial palsy department) Take pictures (or don't) because your BIG, beautiful smile will be back in due time. By the way....I saw Dave's work and it is amazing but out of my price range! Spectacular!
Angie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 22, 2009, 08:37:20 pm: Nancy... in case you're in need of a laugh, watch this... I had tears streaming out of the eye that cries because I was laughing so much!

xx

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Tu0PAbW75A
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: tenai98 on April 22, 2009, 09:08:59 pm: I feel like I cheated everyone. NO issues whatsoever. NO tinnitus, no facial paralysis, no eye problem...soap taste gone....nightmares gone...not sleeping thru the night but after a nice cuppa warm milk...back to sleep...The odd nap here and there..and I did dishes today..yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa....now I dont feel so helpless ::)
JO ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 22, 2009, 10:28:03 pm: Quote
in case you're in need of a laugh

Oh, dear, I just watched The Daily Show and The Colbert Report and now this. My fat graft is splitting! Thanks, I needed that, JB.

Angie, I'll pass along your comments. Thank you. Have fun at the beach! And thank you for yet another assessment resulting in encouragement.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 23, 2009, 12:24:46 am: Glad I could be of service!!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 23, 2009, 09:25:02 pm: Hi Nancy,
I hope you're doing alright. Is the weather getting warmer and are you able to garden?
I empathize with the facial issues you're dealing with. I was right there where you were a couple of months ago. I still sometimes chomp on the inside of my lip, and was thankful that the food at the brunch was easy to cut up small and eat.
People have kept telling me and telling me "be patient; it'll get better; it just takes a while." Many of these people aren't even AN people; they've just had some experiences with Bells Palsy (for example) or nerve damage, etc. My smile is finally almost back to normal (I think I'm 3 months post almost). My eye is still a problem but am dealing with it and am thankful for the ointment and also the drops that are a bit more oily (found out about them on the eye issues part of the forum). I was really concerned about my eye when I was doing all that driving in the Boston area, but the oily like drops really helped coat my eye without making things blurry.
You're doing so well so recently a postie. I know things get frustrating at times, but time flies and it really gets better.
You do have a wonderful attitude about everything, and you're a great help for others. And we all love your sense of humor.
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 24, 2009, 06:42:36 am: Thanks, Keri. You are my inspiration. Seeing you in the flesh with your partially recovered facial nerve gives me hope. I am not as down on myself as each day passes. Oh, are you allowed to advertise these magic eye drops? The gel does a great job at night, but the drops almost seem too much like alcohol and only soothing as they hit the eyeball with their cold shock but then of no benefit.
Yes, the weather is beautiful. I have been out gardening, but now it's all a little overwhelming with everything sprouting and needing attention.
Dave and I will go out tomorrow for a long paddle to the bald eagles' nest as the chicks should be visible. I'll try to remember to take camera and post any sightings.
This is why we survive winter up here.
Thank you for checking up on me, but please don't worry. I'm really just fine and dandy, looking forward to my son's homecoming from college (although he will live at the resort where he works rdcsquam.com this year rather than commuting), experiencing vicariously my daughter's camping trip to Yellowstone and the Badlands in May, and Dave's daughter's valedictorian speech (He's so proud.) and prep for heading off to college. So much happiness flooding into my life. How can I complain?
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on April 24, 2009, 08:13:22 am: Hi Nancy,
Your boating trip sounds like it will be great fun. Hope you get some good pictures.
Here's the drop info: Refresh Celluvisc Lubricant eye drops (thank you to Lori and others on the "Eye Issues" page). They're in a clear little plastic single application thing. Be careful (maybe this is just me!!) but when I put the clear dropper near my eye, I tend to poke myself in the eye with it because i cant' see it coming!
Enjoy the visit with your kids. How many? Son in UK, right? Is he the one coming home? My son will be shipping out to join the Air Force at the end of June (sniff sniff : (
Have a great weekend!
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: anissa on April 24, 2009, 11:01:38 am: Hi Nancy, just checking in on you. I guess I hadn't read your update thread in a while, I had to go back a page or two. I'm sorry you're still having troubles. I'd just like to copy and "ditto" Ernie's post, so well said. I'll continue to keep you in my prayers. Please have a Guinness for me, I just don't get the good stuff around here.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on April 25, 2009, 09:38:06 am: Hi Nancy,
I think you're looking pretty good and I have confidence that your face will regain its symmetry. Hang in there, you're a tough cookie and spirit and determination are really all you need as you recover. Remember you are not alone in this. Every time I've felt bad (too many to count) I have come to this forum and been reminded that I belong to a small and select group of people. I wish I could have joined you at the pub--would have been a blast. Take care of yourself.
Best,
Marci
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cin605 on April 25, 2009, 11:54:44 am: Hi Nancy i hope your enjoying the beautiful N.H. weather today.80"s i am so lovin' it!
I took Malibu my bearded dragon out to bask for a bit.
Fell better soon.
Cin
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 25, 2009, 12:56:24 pm: Today's paddle on Squam
(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/kayakdave.jpg)
Stopping for a picnic on Loon Island
(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/eaglepartner.jpg)
Eagle partner off duty
(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/eaglenest.jpg)
Nesting eagle
(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/loonflight.jpg)
Loon in flight
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on April 25, 2009, 01:07:24 pm: Wow
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nancyann on April 25, 2009, 02:29:48 pm: Oh Nancy, the pictures are beautiful ! ! You have a wonderful life there - what a way to recuperate ! !

Always good thoughts, Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 25, 2009, 02:38:55 pm: Believe me, we pay for it . . . winter!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cin605 on April 25, 2009, 02:39:44 pm: Nice!!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nancyann on April 25, 2009, 02:44:51 pm: Yes, I remember 'winter' - I lived outside of Bangor Maine for 5 years (off the 'airline road', or 'humpback road', Rte.9), now I'm just north of Miami Fl, go figure....
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: tenai98 on April 25, 2009, 02:51:49 pm: Yes winter can be brutal. January is spent in Mexico and March in Florida but I wouldn trade living on the water for anything...Here is a photo taken out of my living room window...And yes Ernie there is plenty of fishing...large/small mouth bass, walleye, pike, etc
(http://i364.photobucket.com/albums/oo85/tenai98/PC062447.jpg)
JO ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 25, 2009, 02:58:22 pm: No! Winter pictures are banned from the Spa Day thread! ;D ;D ;D
And Marci, great idea on the shoes. If they're flamboyant enough, no one will notice my roots!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on April 25, 2009, 08:47:10 pm: My thoughts exactly!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on April 26, 2009, 10:48:25 am: Nancy,
Those pics are breathtaking! Who's the photographer? YOU???????
Looks like a kind of day where you can just relax and enjoy the NATURE sounds and beauty.
Thanks for sharing :)
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 27, 2009, 08:47:36 am: Moi, herself, indeed! Got lucky.
It was one of those top ten days for sure. We're having a whole string of them, but I'm sure we'll get back to normal soon, unless I can talk Ernie into making a sacrifice to the weather gods on my behalf.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 28, 2009, 08:48:42 am: Hi Nancy,

Love, love, love, the Eagle pictures! What a beautiful area!

Hope youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re doing well.

Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 28, 2009, 08:57:37 am: I've been wondering where you went to. Are you back at work? I'm doing great. Just eye irritation and ugly as anything, but functioning just as if nothing had happened. Well, my incision area feels weird, but no big deal. I'm just about ready to cheat and color the skunk-stripe part. I think I can just wet my hair and apply color just to my part and then turn upside down and rinse it out. It's just the non-permanent stuff that I use.
I received an order for three-month MRI and blood test from Mili. Did you?
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on April 28, 2009, 09:47:14 am: Hi,

Glad to hear your feeling good. Don't you have head pain when you put your head upside down? I still do. ???
I haven't heard a word from Mili except to cancel my 6-week check up. Is the three month MRI and blood test normal?
I haven't been told a thing. It's like I'm invisible again. :(

Hey, I started watching a program on telescopes last night, but fell asleep before the end. Could it have been the program that Dave was on?

Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 28, 2009, 10:17:18 am: Oh! I don't think so. His would have been so exciting that you would have stayed awake! ;D ;D
His is scheduled for either this Sunday or Mother's Day (Everybody, remember your mothers!) at 9 am CBS Sunday Morning Show. I'll try to remember to post an announcement as soon as I know for sure.
No, the only pain I get when I put my head upside down is my mother yelling at me, which she did when I was digging up volunteer plants in her garden this morning. ;D
I do feel a little nervous when I do it, though, thinking my brain might explode. But remember I was on extended steroids. How could anyone forget!?!
McKenna told me one year for an MRI. Mili scheduled me for a two-week MRI, but I refused and told her about McKenna, but then I got this appointment from Barker for an MRI at MGH for 8 am July 15 (with BUN Creatinine lab slip for two weeks before the MRI) which is five days before I see McKenna on the 20th. What craziness!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 13, 2009, 04:53:32 pm: Just had to share this recent visit with you. I was headed out after dinner to do some gardening, and look who showed up.

(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/babymoose.jpg)

Then I realized the mother was in the woods below. She came up to the house soon thereafter.

(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/mommiemoose.jpg)

And later they headed off together.

(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/moosies.jpg)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on May 13, 2009, 05:29:09 pm: Wow, so cool Nancy!

The only wild life we see in our yard are squirrels, lizards, and peacocks.

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on May 13, 2009, 06:27:28 pm: That's awesome... they kind of look like bronze statues! I want to come to your garden and see the fab things you see!!! Shall we do a swap??!!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 14, 2009, 05:58:17 am: Yes, please.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on May 14, 2009, 06:44:50 am: Done!!! It's a bit blustery at the moment here though so when packing, think 'layering' !!!!!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 14, 2009, 07:32:51 am: I'll just wear my wetsuit!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on May 14, 2009, 04:46:18 pm: Oh, Nancy,
How lucky you are to have moose visit you! The last time I saw a moose this far south in NH was in lying in the middle of the Everett Turnpike with some rescue vehicles flashing around it. It wasn't pretty. And to have a mom and baby too. Very special.

Wondering how you are doing. It sure sounds like you have bounced back and are feeling more like your old self. My symptoms are progressively getting worse and I have called McKenna's office to schedule surgery. Hoping for mid-late July.

Glad you are well!!

MissMolly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 14, 2009, 05:15:39 pm: It is so sad when progress and wildlife collide. I clipped the hind leg of a bull moose on 93N many years ago. He walked on, but I felt horrible. My two small children and dog slept through the collision.
I am feeling fine. The numbness of my ear and surrounding area, the increased tinnitus and total hearing loss, and of course, my facial weakness are the only annoyances. It seems my smile is coming back, and my eye troubles me only when overused or out in the wind with debris in the air.
You can expect the best possible outcome with McKenna and Barker.
Good luck.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on May 14, 2009, 10:31:23 pm: Very cool moose pictures, Nancy.

Thanks for sharing them. Here we just have squirrels, squirrels, and more squirrels.

In fact, they might be the official animal of Illinois ;)

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 15, 2009, 07:20:46 am: Jan - Don't you have those cool black squirrels like they have in Michigan?
Ernie - Peacocks are very special, so don't complain. We just have turkeys wandering around here. The lizards are cute, too. I will insist on a trip to Tampa to visit his parents next winter, so we'll come see your wildlife.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on May 15, 2009, 08:03:33 am: we have deer, deer and more deer. my neighbor feeds them (which feeds every other critter around too, but the many cats around here eat some of the critters). seeing an occassional moose would be nice!
i remember peacocks when i lived in east texas. they were beautiful, but when they screeched it sounded very scary - like a horror movie type of thing.
nancy, glad you're doing better. saw dave's show last sunday. i had recorded it. my husband (who's never seen dave except in the lunch pics) thought they did show dave on tv. i need to go watch it again. i spent most of them time trying to figure out where dave may be, and then after i looked at the website (which is really cool) i figured out the connection.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: ppearl214 on May 15, 2009, 08:54:19 am: not to be a party poop, but can we get this truly back on topic or... suggestion... continue the "Mother Nature" discussion in AN Community? Please feel free to start a new thread there. Mother Nature is a wonderful, calming affect on those with ailments and I appreciate it as much as the next person (enjoying watching the new hatchlings of Canadian Geese and Mallard Ducks in our office complex ponds).

Nancy, thank you for sharing all this (as well as others)..... and your understanding.

Nan, please continue here to share about your post-surgical progresses! I know you are hanging in there and doing fine. I know that newbie users to the site will find everyone's post-surgical progresses of help as they research their AN treatment options.

thanks again for understanding.

Phyl
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on May 15, 2009, 09:01:42 am: Hey again, Nancy,

Did Dr. McKenna tallk about whether or not the post-surgery increased tinnitus will subside at all? My hope is that the brain realizes there aren't any signals coming from that side and decides to stop ringing. I'm expecting it to increase after surgery (though it's already pretty loud most of the time) but have a little hope in the back of my mind that it will get quieter.

It does sound like the paralysis is coming back slowly, but surely. When we met in Worcester last month, I didn't look like it was that severe to me. I'll keep sending good thoughts to your facial nerve and tell it to "wake up"!

Glad you are getting out and enjoying the springtime.

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on May 15, 2009, 11:33:22 am: Quote from: ppearl214 on May 15, 2009, 08:54:19 am
not to be a party poop,

(http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp31/flessanguam/party_pooping_puma_sticker-p2176241.jpg)

Sorry, couldn't resist!

~~Ernie~~ Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 15, 2009, 11:36:21 am: Hi, Molly.
I didn't ask Dr. McKenna about the increased tinnitus as I believe that at the time I did not truly recognize it. Sorry. I see Dr. Barker on Thursday and will try to remember to ask him the question. I am assuming that it will remain at this level and am learning to accept it. Mind over matter and all that. Have you checked other threads or Stoneaxe's survey about pre and post-op symptoms on this topic?
Uh, at the brunch, my facial weakness was pretty severe. It's getting better now but still quite noticeable. I am following in Keri's footsteps toward full recovery. She looked mighty fine at ten weeks. Today Dave cut (chopped off) my hair, so the appearance of my bizarre coif should distract anyone from noticing my face. ;D He's never cut hair before. If you think I was brave to go into brain surgery, . . .
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: ppearl214 on May 15, 2009, 12:17:48 pm: Quote from: EJTampa on May 15, 2009, 11:33:22 am
Sorry, couldn't resist!
~~Ernie~~ Jan

thanks ern....er.. um... Jan :) Back on topic! :)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cin605 on May 15, 2009, 01:24:49 pm: lol.... ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on May 15, 2009, 01:42:06 pm: Molly, unfortunately, tinnitus usually does not get better or go away after surgery. If anything, like Nancy is experiencing, it can get worse. But, usually (maybe) it does subside to nearly pre-op levels after a few weeks post-op and/or we just learn to live with it or deal with it. Most of us find certain environments get the ringing really going strong, but then abates some when back in normal surroundings. Again, usually, sometimes, maybe...you get the picture. I will say that I met someone the other night who had surgery a couple of years ago and her tinnitus went completely away! So, it apparently can happen - so, there is certainly hope...

Nancy, glad to hear positive news about your facial weakness...remember the patience thing...^{Know what you mean about being brave, my husband has been coloring my hair for a few years now ::)}

Cindy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: tenai98 on May 15, 2009, 06:15:39 pm: I had tinnitus before surgery and voila it disappeared after surgery. I kinda miss it tho, the crickets and sounds of a rushing stream that use to put me to sleep. Has anyone else lose their tinnitus after surgery?
JO ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on May 15, 2009, 06:29:09 pm: Yeah Jo, I had a little bit before surgery and it's gone now - lucky I guess?
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on May 15, 2009, 09:08:07 pm: jo-
mine was gone after surgery, but then it came back. maybe your's will to and you can get some sleep!

hi nancy-
glad to hear of your facial progress. and i think i read that dave is your hair stylist now. post a picture!

keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 16, 2009, 07:24:52 am: Keri - His daughter is going to rescue me from the disaster tomorrow. And no, he was not in the show, much to his relief, but his telescope redesign/ creation was. I am hoping to post an update of my face as soon as my hair is repaired. "If it isn't one thing, it's another." Oh, I had a little balance thing in the shower, eyes wide open, this morning that took me by surprise. One must always be prepared, mustn't one? At least I don't have far to fall, 5'-1 1/2" and all that.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on May 16, 2009, 07:36:35 am: Thanks for the tinnitus input, guys. I have a secret hope that it's going to go away. In the meantime, I've put the tinnitus into the perspective of "gentle waterfall" or "evening rainfall" to put myself to sleep sometimes. However, it occasionally becomes "evening rainfall with touches of smoke alarm" which isn't very relaxing at all. ::)

Sorry about you balance thing, Nancy. Thankfully you are light as a feather and a fall wouldn't hurt too much! ;) Be careful, though!!

Miss Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 18, 2009, 06:49:21 am: DON'T BE EATING WHEN YOU LOOK AT THIS!

Face is returning gradually.

DAY 12

(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/face20apr09.jpg)

DAY 39

(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/Day39.jpg)

Sorry for the wrinkles . . . hard life.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Cheryl R on May 18, 2009, 07:12:47 am: Nancy, you are looking super! I really like the hair too. It took me 3 1/2 mos to get my face back in 2001, so you are doing very well. Plus there is nothing even close to horrible for the eaters while being on the computer! LOL!
Cheryl R
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on May 18, 2009, 08:45:54 am: Nancy! Looking good! So smart of you to take progressive photos...I was remiss on that account. The hair-cut-by-husband looks really great also! I'd say he's got mine beat in the cosmetology arena...

Thanks for posting these,

Cindy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on May 18, 2009, 09:07:40 am: Nancy,
Great pictures and you're so funny! Was that the new "Dave Do" or the "Dave then fixed by daughter Do" ? It loooks good! I cut my daughter's hair, then my own bangs. I really need some help! It hurts a bit when the little pieces of hair fall in your eye that you think is shut but isn't quite.

Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 18, 2009, 09:25:18 am: Thanks, Cindy and Cheryl. Keri, That's the repair job.
I'm really hoping for a II (Two) on the Brackman scale from Dr. Barker on Thursday.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on May 18, 2009, 10:41:18 am: Nancy,
I like your hair do and your face really looks improved.
Are you doing facial exercises or have you gotten any advice?
Definite improvement. Keep exercising the facial muscles I would imagine.
Looking good :)
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on May 18, 2009, 11:00:54 am: Thanks, Maureen.
No advice, no exercises. But I am a fairly frequent eater and talker. And :-* my David, too, if that counts.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on May 18, 2009, 11:06:44 am: Hi Nancy!

I have to add my comments in too. I can see a big difference between the two photos! Not just the extent of the smile, but also your cheek goes up higher now in the second picture. I think you are going to be one of the rapid healers!

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nancyann on May 18, 2009, 01:00:38 pm: Thanks for updating your picture Nance, so glad to see that smile !
Continued healing my friend, Always good thoughts, (the other) Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on May 18, 2009, 08:47:14 pm: Looking good Nancy! Huge difference in the two. You look relaxed and happy too... ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Kate B on May 18, 2009, 09:14:14 pm: What a difference several months make! Glad you shared.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: LisaP on May 19, 2009, 05:07:26 am: Nancy,

You look great, and the hair cut to is cute. ???I did not understand what you mean when you said, don't be eating when you look at this. I think you look great!!!! You give me who is stilll W&W great hope!

LisaP ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on May 19, 2009, 10:55:28 am: Hi Nancy,

Looking good! I know it must seem like an eternity for you, but you are just about there!
Dave (and his daughter) did a great job with the do. Maybe I could hire them to do a trim for me?

Good luck with your appt. Thursday.

Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on May 19, 2009, 01:00:57 pm: Hey Nancy,
I definitely see a little upturn on your ANside smile. The tone in your cheeks and around you eye looks more lively too. (Canyou tell I'm a speech pathologist?) Can't wait to see more updates. As for exercises, Helga and I got into a fairly risque conversation about getting muscle tone back following surgery. If anything, the suggestions will get you laughing...

Love hearing from you and seeing you,

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on May 20, 2009, 01:13:06 am: You look super great Nancy! Loving the new hair! You must be so pleased with the progress!! It's great you're documenting it - it's easy to think nothing's changing otherwise. Once you look at pics you think, hey I'm doing really well!!

Yay you!
xx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on June 15, 2009, 11:28:27 am: (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/NPCrusin6-13-09.jpg)

I was just PMing the bear photo to a coupla forumites when I saw my previous face pic in photobucket and thought, Oh, my, the photo from the boat ride on Saturday is a tad different! So, here it is two months, one and a half weeks post-op.

Compare to (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/face20apr09.jpg) at 12 days and (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/Day39.jpg) one month, one week and two days post-op.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on June 15, 2009, 11:47:59 am: wow, you look great. boat trip looks fun. i thought your passenger was smoking a cigar !! (at first with just a quick look)
you did ROCK IT. (thanks jb)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on June 15, 2009, 01:42:06 pm: Looking good, Nancy, and having a great time it looks like! Have you done any rowing/skulling yet?

Cindy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: stoneaxe on June 15, 2009, 02:14:21 pm: Awesome... :)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on June 15, 2009, 02:28:49 pm: Nancy ~

Lookin' good! :) It's a joy to 'watch' your progress! Thanks for the updated photo.

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on June 15, 2009, 02:54:45 pm: Quote
Have you done any rowing/sculling yet?

That's a sore point up here in New England. We've decided not to have summer. Cold and wet. But the boats are ready to go, and I'm going to make Dave go out with me one early morning this week as the weather forecast is improving. Where's Ernie when you need him?!

I remember when I was terrified I would lose my smile (It's a distraction from all my flaws.). It's baaaaaaack!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Cheryl R on June 15, 2009, 03:16:59 pm: Nancy, the weather in the midwest isn't any better. I have wore shorts once and haven't even got some of the summer clothes out. There is an occ night with winter pjs too. I had a garage sale this past Sat and sat with a heavier fleece coat on. Today is some better.
Super to hear about the smile. We knew it would come back sooner than you thought, you just didn't think so!
Cheryl R
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on June 15, 2009, 05:43:07 pm: I LOOOOVE your smile. I knew it would come back! ;D
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on June 15, 2009, 09:35:20 pm: Faaaaaaabulous pictures darling!!! I think you need to change your signature from "Almost rocked it" to "totally rocked it!"... besides it's all in the attitude as to whether you rocked it or not... the actual after effects are insignificant - if you feel you rocked it, then you rocked it.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on June 16, 2009, 09:30:04 am: I ROCKED IT!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Kaybo on June 16, 2009, 09:33:47 am: ...that's better!! ;D

K
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on June 16, 2009, 09:45:56 am: Yay Nancy!!! You look fabulous, in my opinion. I look at your smile and feel a little less anxious about surgery on Monday. Looks and sounds like you feel well too. Hooray and Hooray again. You did Rock it!!

Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: SML on June 16, 2009, 03:44:54 pm: Quote from: NancyMc on June 15, 2009, 02:54:45 pm

I remember when I was terrified I would lose my smile. It's baaaaaaack!
Yes it is! And a beautiful smile indeed! Looks like everyone was having a good time too. 8)

I would love to see your wildlife pictures. Any chance you can PM them to me?

Scarlett
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on June 16, 2009, 05:16:28 pm: Yeah Nancy!!!! Good girl!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on June 16, 2009, 06:22:37 pm: uh oh, she's going to change her profile name again.... NancyROCKED.IT :D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on June 16, 2009, 06:23:25 pm: speaking of changing... maybe it's time i changed my signature!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on June 17, 2009, 12:35:02 pm: Yeah, Keri, what's the problem? Too busy taking over for LADavid? ;D
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on June 17, 2009, 12:42:24 pm: I used to pretend that I did not have a cranial base tumor when I was between MRIs for the first seven years.

Now I don't have to pretend any more. I really don't have a tumor. That's amazing!

How can I thank Dr. Barker and Dr. McKenna enough?
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on June 17, 2009, 02:12:19 pm: that's a nice thought, NancyRI (about pretending and it's all gone now).

regarding being busy taking over for LADavid, well, yes, i constantly worry over what the next adjectve will be ! (well, not exactly, but i do wonder... he came up with good ones). and then when i go to look at the calendar so i can write the update, i still have to go find one of steve's posts because he has the calendar in his sig!i shoudl just do it, but haven't yet. too busy procrastinating, or not sure I know how to change it and add the link.

does your face feel totally back to normal? (it looks it). i'm still having some issues... will elaborate another time. got to get back to work!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on June 17, 2009, 02:35:57 pm: Keri ~

If it will expedite locating the calendar, try bookmarking it on your browser, as I do. Here's the link: http://my.calendars.net/AN_Treatments (http://my.calendars.net/AN_Treatments)

This allows you to open another window and bring up the calendar. That way you can copy the dates/procedures/events as you compose that weeks update on another screen.

Just a suggestion. Thanks again for your work on the calendar. :)

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on June 17, 2009, 02:58:23 pm: Yes, I have the calendar bookmarked as well so I can open it separately.
As far as my face goes, no, it's not totally back to normal. I still have a little irritation in my eye when I stare at something or drive for too long. My cheek still feels as though I had work done at the dentist this morning. And speech occasionally becomes a little like I have mashed potatoes in my mouth. But all that is extremely manageable.
Do you feel as though you've had improvement since April?
Thanks for taking over the weekly newsletter.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on July 08, 2009, 03:19:44 pm: Today is my three-month anniversary. Outcome remains the same . . . very minimal facial weakness, slight metallic taste, lessened but constant tinnitus, i.e., more tinnitus than pre-op but of a more consistent nature and less annoying than immediately post-op, numbness of surgical site, no balance issues, eye irritation occurs about once a week for a few minutes, SSD is way worse than pre-op when I was told there was no usable hearing remaining (perhaps not for speech recognition, but certainly for sensing a presence). So, all is well, and I will update Stoneaxe's poll if I can find it and retire this thread.
What a life experience! If I'd known that it was going to be so personally fulfilling and that I would make friends with socially redeeming qualities by enduring this process, I might have actually chosen the diagnosis.
The only unpleasant aspect is the SSD, and who knows, maybe some day I'll buy myself a BAHA! First follow-up MRI on Monday in the bun o' fun (open tube o' gloom for us claustrophobes).
Gratefully,
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on July 09, 2009, 07:01:16 am: Yay Nancy! Fantastico! You are rocking it! Enjoy the tube on Monday! In the last week I have really noticed my hearing deficit since the op - I've been out to a few restaurants with friends and such and really struggled to hear and found myself nodding a lot and smiling without actually knowing what was being said - I'm sure I'll get myself into trouble with that tactic soon! The rest of the time it's totally manageable but unfortunately everyone seems to be picking noisy restaurants all of a sudden! Or maybe all restaurants are that noisy and I've only just noticed!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on July 09, 2009, 10:02:58 am: Welcome to my world. :-[
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on July 09, 2009, 05:15:08 pm: Yes JB and Nancy,
I'm doing the smile and nod thing a lot too. When it's quiet, things seem so almost normal. Add another noise in the mix and FORGET IT!
And now, every time the phone rings, I'm wondering if it's my son calling from USAF basic training and I'm running around like a crazy person looking all over the place for my phone, since I can't hear exactly where it's coming from (yes, cordless, and i know, i should leave it in the thing it's supposed to sit in).
And JB, thanks for the adjective !!
Keri
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Kaybo on July 09, 2009, 09:17:40 pm: I've been smilin' and noddin' for over 13 years now - it is not so bad! ;D

K ;)
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on October 08, 2009, 08:28:01 am: Six months. Still some asymmetry. Didn't get much sleep last night, so it is actually more pronounced than usual. That'll make my one-year look like I made progress.
(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/6month.jpg) (http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv274/nancycmcdonald/hair.jpg)

No change since the three-month report. But I do have my BAHA initial consultation scheduled for 6 November.
And can you believe it? Dr. McKenna's office called again yesterday to bump my three-month post-op follow-up. Think I'll just skip to the one-year follow-up in April.
Until then, it's off to Scotland and Ireland to visit my son in his last year of university, skip about the Emerald Isle, and do the pub crawl with joebloggs.
Yours aye,
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nancyann on October 08, 2009, 08:37:36 am: Looking good there Nancy, have a great time travelling, say 'hi' to joebloggs from us all.

Always good thoughts, (the other) Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: nteeman on October 08, 2009, 09:24:52 am: Hey Nancy,

You look great!

Neal
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jackie on October 08, 2009, 11:05:51 am: Hi Nancy,

To coin a well-known phrase "You look Marvelous" and you do! Congratulations............. have a superb trip, and get those hugs from your son!!!
Jackie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MissMolly on October 08, 2009, 02:34:41 pm: Nancy,
I'm so glad to see you looking so well.

Miss Molly
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Jim Scott on October 08, 2009, 02:39:28 pm: Hey, Nancy ~

Thanks for the photos that demonstrate your excellent recovery. Well done!

Jim
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on October 08, 2009, 07:49:19 pm: Where's the assymetry? ??? Honestly I can't see any.
And what's with the hair thing?
You look really happy and cute!
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on October 09, 2009, 01:42:45 am: Quote
what's with the hair thing?

That's how long my shaved hair is now, Silly!

Thanks all for the encouragement. I feel a LOT of asymmetry, even have trouble speaking sometimes. Unfortunately, no trouble eating or drinking.
I have not recovered from last winter's weather. We were not rewarded with our usual beautiful summer. So, although I am happy in general, there is an underlying mild depression about the coming cold and snow. As soon as we're back from the islands of the Celts, it'll be time to start planning a visit to some sort of island of the tropics.
Getting too old.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: MAlegant on October 09, 2009, 05:59:46 am: Nancy,
You look great, I mean really, really great!
Marci
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: leapyrtwins on October 09, 2009, 06:01:30 am: Nancy Mc -

can't wait to hear what you think of the BAHA demo. I think you're going to like it ;D

Have a great vacation - and don't let joebloggs lead you astray ;) :D

Jan
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on October 09, 2009, 03:11:17 pm: WHAT????

Nancy's more trouble than I am. Way more - I can tell!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on October 09, 2009, 03:22:32 pm: Ha! I will be in the presence of my son for whom I must remain a proper role model. JB will be headed to a wedding, all primed for partying. In any event, I've asked Mac to search out a place where two semi-deaf ladies can converse over dinner. There's a curry joint in Bruntsfield that's supposed to be great. Are ya up fer it? Anyway, be in touch, Moins. See you soon. Flying out Sunday.
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on October 09, 2009, 03:53:26 pm: Always up for a curry! Sounds good!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: sgerrard on October 10, 2009, 12:40:49 am: We are expecting you ladies to behave yourself in merry England. We don't want to have send Phyl over to keep you in line. The reputation of ANer's around the world must be upheld. Let's not be reading about you in The Sun. :D

Have a great trip.

Steve
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: cindyj on October 10, 2009, 09:02:50 am: SOOOO jealous, Nancy! Have a great time over there with JB...and with your son too, of course!

Can't wait to hear about it and see pics - give the royals my best,

Cindy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on October 10, 2009, 10:51:43 am: Quote from: NancyMc on October 09, 2009, 01:42:45 am
Quote
what's with the hair thing?

That's how long my shaved hair is now, Silly!

Oh yea now I get it!
Have fun on your trip :)
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on October 10, 2009, 11:00:39 am: Steve, please tell me you don't read The Sun. I'd have to rethink our friendship if you do! I can assure you anyway that you will certainly not read about us in that publication! We will be very well behaved - I'm sure Edinburgh can't wait to have us visit! Right must fly, off to the theatre in London, must doll up so I don't frighten the theatre goers! xx
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on October 10, 2009, 11:04:31 am: Quote
off to the theatre in London

Some life you got there, JB.

And Steve, you really must learn to differentiate between the English, Scots, and Irish. The Scots and Irish would be horrified should I say, "I'm off to England!"

Photos of the meeting will follow post haste.

Cheers!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Keri on October 10, 2009, 03:23:35 pm: Have a great trip! It's great you get to see your son and JB. And eat!

Keri
Title: A year ago today . . . Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: NancyMc on April 08, 2010, 12:31:16 pm: A year ago today . . .
When we woke up this morning, we discussed how one would celebrate an ANniversary. What should we have for breakfast? If we are re-enacting the day, we would have no breakfast and wake up in 9 hours extremely dehydrated begging for ice chips and have to wait for the night nurse who was more lenient and gave me all the ice chips and lemon ice I wanted which made my stomach a bit uneasy. Then we'd have powdered eggs the following morning and lose them almost immediately. So, we decided to just have oatmeal instead.
At this point I would assess my recovery as speedy (Thank you, Steroids!) and uncomplicated (Thank you, Surgeons!). My outcome was not the best I could have hoped for, but I'll sure take it.
I am left with some facial weakness, meaning a bit of asymmetry, AN eye won't open all the way, smile is a bit lopsided if I try hard enough.
The entire AN half of my head has superficial numbness.
I have a sweet metallic taste on the AN side of my tongue.
My speech can get a tad gummed up due to numbness of tongue and cheek.
SSD and tinnitus, of course. Both seem a bit worse then pre-op.
Balance was not a noticeable problem pre-op and remains insignificant. Any falls are due to osteo and inflammatory arthritis.
The dent behind my ear which I denied having until I searched closer to my ear seems to be significant. My ear which was sticking out to my horror post-op is now sucked into my head to my even greater horror. It has become increasingly difficult to put my glasses on or to put my hair behind my ear. If I look at my face straight on in the mirror when my hair is wet, I can't see my AN ear. I read a thread way back about someone who had this problem and mentioned it to his or her surgeon who just said, "That happens." I was in shock! But fortunately, that was not my situation. Ha! Guess what. So, the question is how much farther will my fat shrink?
My three-month follow-up appointment was canceled twice, and my annual one was canceled once so far. I haven't been asked to have an annual MRI, although I know I'm supposed to. I think I'll just write a letter to explain my symptoms and concerns. I had an appointment with a facial doctor (not sure what that's called) but canceled it when McKenna canceled (The drive is too far not to have at least two things to do.).
The next goal is to acquire a Sound Bite.
Life is good.
Nancy
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Lizard on April 08, 2010, 07:32:09 pm: Quote from: NancyMc on April 03, 2009, 06:04:29 am
Well, you know, the northeastern part of our great country has a lot of lawyers. ::)

How true, it totally had a whole list of these pre-op as well...NE is too sue happy!
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Pooter on April 08, 2010, 08:56:12 pm: Congratulations, Nancy... I think what you described about the first couple of days in the hospital were true for almost all of us, me included with the exception of not really remembering anything clearly until 2-3 days post surgery day.. I remember how wonderful it was when I first ate jello... My "first meal" after surgery (about day 2 or so after surgery) was 2 things of jello..after that, nausea.. Ahh, the good ol' days...

One down and many more to come... As Phyl likes to say, onward and upward...

Regards,
Brian
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: moe on April 08, 2010, 10:23:13 pm: Thanks for the year update, Nancy.
Good hearing from you :)
Our lives really will never be the same will they?
Keep the spirit!
Maureen
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: EJTampa on April 09, 2010, 08:24:15 am: Hi Nancy,

I just had my 1 year post-op today! I went to bed last night and my wife told me I had the 8 AM appt with Dr. Bartels. I was like, you're kidding? It just snuck right up on me.

I'm sorry you are still dealing with some facial weakness. I know from reading past posts that it has improved greatly from when you first came home a year ago, but I will continue to pray that you have a full recovery with time.

It's interesting how you decided to celebrate the ANniversary. For me it would have been ice chips followed by a "tossing of the ice chips", if you know what I mean :).

I can't wait to meet you and the rest of the gang! I can't believe its only a week away!

Ernie
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: Lynn Mc on April 09, 2010, 08:36:14 am: Hi Nancy,

Congrats on you 1 year!!! Guess we will always be a little different than pre AN. Dr. McKenna's office cancelled me a few times also. Millie is gone from Dr. Barkers - although they are no more efficient!!! Life goes on. Can't wait to see you next week. Again congratulations!

Happy Trails,
Lynn
Title: Re: Nancy's Spa Day - Lipo and a Face Lift
Post by: joebloggs on April 09, 2010, 11:43:23 am: Nancy my sweet soul sister! You are so rocking your 1 year anniversary and your life! Whoop whoop to the rockaholic Nancy!

Hopefully see you soon! xxx