I would like to know what the outcomes are? I hear some come out deaf, w/ headaches ... Does the surgry take away the fullnes or brain fog feeling, is that one of the main benefits? How many get their balance back and how long is it to regain balance for most of you??? Because or the vertigo, I am considering going to see an AN specialist.
Thanks, Grace
Hi, Grace ~
As you probably realize, every AN surgery patient's situation is somewhat unique and there is no 'standard' outcome to AN surgery.
Yes,
some AN surgery patients experience post-op headaches and imbalance issues and most lose hearing in the affected ear if it has not disappeared by the time of the surgery due to tumor growth infringing on the hearing nerve. However, some have relatively excellent outcomes.
I cannot speak for all AN patients but I can tell you from reading thousands of posts on this site (
member since 2006) that most post-op issues, including balance, do resolve. Sometimes it takes a few years, sometimes a few months or weeks. Occasionally facial reanimation surgery is necessary and balance therapies are sometimes employed, depending on the patient's situation. For SSD (
Single Side Deafness) there are BAHA (
Bone Anchored Hearing Aids) and other devices to assist hearing if the patient desires such aids (
many do).
As you likely realize, Grace, this site and this forums are intended as a support resource for AN patients (
surgical and radiation). Most AN patients that have a full recovery eventually cease posting as they move on with their lives and no longer need the support we offer. That is understandable and expected. Those with ongoing post-op/radiation issues will naturally post here seeking information, advice and support. That is the purpose of the forums.
Like every AN patient, you want some solid ideas about what your AN surgery will bring and are concerned about life-altering complications. That, too, is understandable and expected. Unfortunately, that kind of assurance is simply not realistic because there are so many variables involved with AN surgery, including size of the tumor, it's exact location and the surgeon's skill and experience. As you can see from reading the posts, some AN patients do very well (
I'm one) others do O.K. but experience some post-op issues that eventually resolve and some have real complications that can be daunting. Most eventually end up adjusting and coping quite well. I trust that if you opt for AN surgery, you'll be among them.
Jim 
