Author Topic: 2 weeks post op retro questions  (Read 1903 times)

hasovschib

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2 weeks post op retro questions
« on: March 05, 2015, 11:09:35 pm »
Hello guy,   i just got a AN removed (1.5 0.7 0.7) they used retrosigmodian. Im on the road to recovery but it's not going that well.  Iwas hoping for some advice and input from you guys. Any replies are appreciated
I came out of surgery with my face intact, everything was working like before, i was pretty happy but 2 days ago a little face palsy hit me (i cant smile properly and i have to struggle to close my eye >:(). is this gonna go away ? (idk what facial exercises to do if anyone has some links that would be great )
I have pain on the side of my surgery, the scar, the ear even my jaw hurts (it hurts mostly during the nights when lie down to sleep) is this normal at this stage after surgery ?
And i have this salty taste in my  mouth like all the time, especially in the mornings when i wake up. Has anyone experienced this?
Thank you for reading, english is not my first language so bare with me

lorigasper

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Re: 2 weeks post op retro questions
« Reply #1 on: March 09, 2015, 06:30:26 pm »
Hi there -
I have a couple of thoughts for you.  I'm sorry the facial palsy has set in.  I don't know how long it will last, but wait patiently.  Nerves take a long time to heal - sometimes weeks or months. (I know, not what you want to hear!) The specialists generally urge patients not to do too much too soon.   I would encourage you VERY strongly to see a specialist about your eye.  Your facial nerve stimulates tear production, and without them you can really do damage.  I use an ointment in my eye when I'm not using a scleral lens.  It clouds my vision, but protects my eye.  You can read quite a bit on this forum about eye care and you'll probably needs to try several gels, drops or ointments to find which works best for you.  I use Refresh PM day and night, plus some cling wrap around my eye at night to protect it.  I love my scleral lens during the day and it might help you if your eye needs help for an extended time.  You can read a lot on this site and on the web about options.

I had very little pain after surgery, so I wonder if you should contact your surgeon to make sure all is well.  I did sleep with my head elevated for quite a few weeks.  You may try that.....and I wouldn't hesitate to contact the doctor if that doesn't resolve.

I had more of a metallic taste for a bit, but it wasn't too bothersome.  Have you tried moisturizing mouth sprays or rinses?  Your facial nerve also works your salivary glands, so your mouth may be a bit drier than usual and that could be part of your taste issue.  Again, others may be able to offer more than I can.

Our recoveries are all a little different, so I'm sure others will have helpful thoughts to add.  Remember that your body has been through a lot.  Give it time to heal.  We certainly wish you a successful recovery! :)
4cm AN diagnosed 4/13
retrosigmoid 6/13
tarsorraphy 6/13, SSD, rt side facial paralysis
tarsorraphy reversed 7/14
gold weight and scleral lens 7/14
CROS
12/7 nerve graft 12/14