Revision Update

Soooooo, I really wasn't wanting to post anything because I'm kinda blue right now but hey, gotta be real (and Tara was asking! :) ) so here I go.

FYI, read no further if you're not wanting to listen to my Pity Party... 

Okay, as we all know my OS referred me to a plastic surgeon to have my nose looked at. I've had issues w/ breathing through my left nostril, as well as issues with smelling and the physical appearance of my nose looks "off". My OS assumed my nose "buckled" during the surgery and that my septum is deviated causing all of these issues. He sent the PS (plastic surgeon, but I could think of alot of other things to call him) a letter and x-rays explaining all of this. I was excited for this appt. (it was on Tues) as I wanted answers and I saw this surgeon about 8 years ago and his practice is very reputable. Well....I guess a lot of pride can grow in 8 years because this (fill in the blank with whatever name floats your boat!) was terrible. He made me wait 1.5 hours to sashay in and give me all of his "accreditation's" and started in on all the flaws of my face and how he could suck fat out of my tummy to add to my cheeks for fullness, yadda yadda yadda.  I put up a hand stop sign and said, "Wait right there, I'm here for issues with BREATHING from my NOSE". So, he finally decides to get off his high horse and look at my nose where he quickly says that it's NOT deviated but that he could refer me to his dad (an ENT) who may be able to do something about my breathing. Then, told me to come back and see him in a month. Why??? So he can work on "sucking" out some more self esteem??? Like I haven't been through enough emotionally with this jaw surgery.  I barely EVER cry and I was literally bawling. His assistant walked in and said, "take your time and come out when you're ready this happens all the time." How sad is that???  Then, I get a call about an hour later saying my driver's license was on their copy machine and I could I come back? I was like NO, mail it to me.... On top of that, I looked up his dad ENT and found out he graduated med school in 1960, so he's like 80??? Doubt that he's still doing septoplasty...you could've been a REAL doctor and called your dad  to ask before sending me on a wild good chase Dr. Daniel Bortnick of Monarch Plastic Surgery!

So, I called my OS (bawling)...he said to forget that dude and move on. That he probably just wants to stick to boobs and butts (my words not exactly his) where all the $$$$ is. So, I called my previous ENT and got in to see him. He said not only is my septum deviated but my nose was fractured/broke during surgery (or when the drainage tube came out--not sure when) and that's the problem. The solution is, of course, surgery but that I really need to wait until summer when everything is completely healed for it to be effective. Again, insurance will cover it...just another procedure and another waiting game and deciding on who should do the surgery. I'll be sooo glad when all of this is over. Will it ever be????

Pity Party Concluded....

Revision Rhapsody

So, friends....I had my OS check up on Thursday. To refresh everyone, on Dec. 1st I will be three months post-op on upper and lower jaw surgery. I went up 5 mm on top jaw and forward 10 mm lower jaw. During surgery the OS opted NOT to add a chin implant as we discussed it would only be added if OS thought I would absolutely need it to balance out my features. I am only 5'2 w/ "rounded" features and I didn't want too defined of a chin. I am very pleased with their decision to keep my own chin! lol.

To answer a few questions previously asked: Am I 100% happy I had the surgery?

These are all in my purse. I'm addicted...especially to the lil' teal one! :)

 At this point I am not 100% but I have to say I know I would've spent the rest of my life wondering how different everything would've been if I went through w/ the surgery. So for me the risks outweigh my wondering mind for the rest of my life!  The positives are: I can breathe so much better. I haven't had ANY fullness in my ears (and we've been down w/ colds all week) no headaches or facial pain. So far my jaws are not clicking like they used to...so this is awesome to me!

Another Question: Since my back molars do not fully touch yet...Am I confident that my
Ortho can fix this so I can actually CHEW????  Yes!!! I have total faith in him. He is awesome and actually teaches at the dental school in Kansas City so though it may take me longer to get all worked out I DO believe it will happen! :)

Okay, now for the not-so-good news...I am singing the "Revision Rhapsody". I had to schedule a consult w/ a different surgeon for Dec. 9th to look at my nose. I guess it "buckled" when they took the drainage tube out of my nose and now it regrew deviated.  Very deviated. I had a little deviation to the right before surgery. Not sure if they tried to fix that but the deviation is to the left now anyway. I was told (and confirmed through other sites) that this can and does sometimes happen so it is what it is. The good thing is I'm familiar w/ this surgeon, he's an in-network provider and insurance should cover it so I'm not fretting too much. I know my OS feels bad and it's not his fault. Everything else looks good and my bone is starting to grow back in. Not sure when they'll schedule this revision surgery but I'm hoping it's soon. I'd rather get it all over with, you know???

Thanks to you that are voting for my dad! You can continue to vote through Monday morning. I hope he wins. He's an awesome person who does so much for others and I have some great ideas on how to "bless" some organizations w/ the prize jewelry if he does win. If you haven't already, please check out his article and vote through Monday for "Unselfishly Giving Moore" at www.JIC.org/gemcontest

Until next time, Goodbye everybody...I've got to goooo, gonna leave you all behind and face the truth....



wayne's world partytime excellent



Rubber Band Land

Hello Blogger Friends! Well, I'm about 70 days post op now. My bottom lip and chin area has really been tingling so I think the nerves are really working hard at coming back. It's such a strange feeling.

I still have acne/rash but it's getting much better. I saw my Ortho last Wed and he sent me to Rubber Band Land....like majorly! :) Last time I only had one rubber band on the side and was able to eat, brush, etc. with it in. I didn't have to replace it until it broke. Now, I have rubber bands on both sides, up close on front that go all the way back to the molar brackets. I can't get a spoon or fork in so I have to remove them each time I want to eat, brush, etc. and they have to be replaced twice a day. I guess I was spoiled before. I have to wear these all day/night. My back molars don't touch so I guess that's what's supposed to be achieved from this. No pain no gain right? And...I need those back molars to touch or I won't be able to chew food anyway --which I've tried to sneak some stuff...and it didn't really do anything but frustrate me. Other than that my Ortho was really impressed with my bite and said things were lookin' good. I see my OS next Thursday. I'm anxious to see if he still thinks I will need the septoplasty on my nose.

I'm feeling 'okay'. I would be lying if I said I was 'awesome'. I'm still a little down about my nose and my upper lip. I feel like my upper lip is a lot thinner (and stiff)  and it's not even on both sides when I smile or close my mouth. See it in the pictures???

Of course I also still have problems "chewing" and sometimes talking which frustrates me. My face still feels stiff and sensitive to hot/cold but I believe this is def getting a little better all the time.  I'm just very impatient!!!

Well, that's all for now. I will have to post some pics of my wonderful band config once I get unlazy!

Also, please check out the article that my dad is a top ten finalist in. Grand prize winner is determined by the most online votes from now until Nov. 22nd. You can vote once each day. We plan on helping the community out w/ the prize if he wins! He is an awesome man who has helped his community out tremendously. Please support him! :) www.JIC.org/gemcontest His article is titled "Unselfishly Giving Moore". Thank you! :)

Happy Howwwlllllloween!!!!

Happy Halloween everyone! I successfully completed my son's Sonic costume(I did buy the hat) and am glad he's happy with it. I'm glad there were actually two leg and arm holes and that they were the same LENGTH! lol! Here's a pic of my two kids. dog (to the right) and my nephews. They had so much fun!

Today was also my dad's 69th birthday! Which leads me in to my favor...:) My mom had me write an article on my dad for this Gems Among Us contest. My dad made the top ten finalists! Trust me, he is one AWESOME man. Anyway, the winner is determined by the most online votes from November 1st -22nd. If he wins my parents will win an all-inclusive trip to Mexico and my mom will also win some jewelry. They have been through so much and really deserve this. My dad is the most giving guy I know! So please please vote for him. You can vote once daily at www.JIC.org/gemcontest . His article is titled:  "Unselfishly Giving Moore". Thank you friends!!! XOXOXOXO E 

2 Months Post-Op!

Hi all! Well, I can NOT believe it's been two months since the super duper jaw surgery. I've been feeling pretty good. I'm still somewhat emotional about the acne (which I've come to realize on my own is a RASH with a few zits thrown in for good measure) and I'm also emotional about my nose/nostrils looking so different. I'll get used to it, I know. But, while I was complaining to my Hubby the other day my wonderful, wonderful son (who is six) says, "But Mommy, you have such a beautiful smile now!" Ohhhhhhhh, did it melt my heart (and shut me up), I ran right over to him and just hugged the life out of him.!!!

I am feeling really good. I still mostly soft chew and blend stuff as it's just easier but I'll have the okay to eat most anything on Thanksgiving! YAY! I still have those dreaded surgical hooks in my mouth and they really do get in the way. I see my Ortho on Wed so I hope he takes them off. I also realized last week that I had been positioning my rubber band wrong on my brackets. Ooops! I have no idea how long I was doing this or how bad it could have effected anything but it's under control now. I called the Ortho office and had them explain where it SHOULD be so we're good now.

Last night we carved pumpkins and made a pumpkin pie. Tomorrow is my dad's 69th birthday so we will have a fun celebration and then go trick or treating. Busy, Busy. Thankfully, the kids are out of school Monday so they can recover from the sugar high. I am "attempting" to make my son a Sonic the Hedgehog costume. I'll post pics tomorrow...not sure how great it will be but I couldn't find a costume anywhere (that I wanted to pay THAT price for) so homemade it is! :)

I still am slightly numb in my bottom lip but it's getting all tingly so that's a positive. Also, I never knew how sensitive my face would be to hot/cold. If I'm in the sun, my face feels super hot pretty fast. Also, if I'm in the wind or cold air it gets super cold fast. Very normal I'm sure...just something I wasn't expecting. 

Well, I hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween. I'm going to post costume pics tomorrow as I have a favor to ask of all of you...but...you'll have to wait to find out.......Bahhhh Haaa Haa Haaaaa (my evil witch laugh)..XOXOXOXOXOXO

6 Weeks Post-OP

Well, I am now a little over six weeks post op. Nothing too exciting to post! Fellow Jaw Breaker friend, Mandy, had her surgery on Monday. She hasn't posted anything on her blog yet but sent a quick email stating she is a clucking, swollen mess! :( But she is well and surgery went well. She is in her dreaded 3-4 day post surgery bliss and I PROMISED her that it WILL get better. You're in my prayers girlfriend! I can't wait to see pics and for you to be your chipper self again. You'll be up and at em' before you know it!

I had my follow up w/ the OS yesterday. He thinks my bite is looking great, swelling is going down. He's still a little concerned w/ my left nostril and I'm also a little concerned as I have a harder time breathing out of it. He brought the plastic surgeon in and he also said to wait 5 more weeks and we'll look at it then. There is def still some swelling around that area so I'm believing it WILL get better. If not I will have septoplasty done to correct my septum. This procedure would be done outpatient. I'd like to have it done before the end of the year though, so I could claim it on taxes with the rest of this god-awful amount! :) Of course insurance only covers this w/ a prior-auth so we start down that road again.  Sigh...I just have to believe it will all be miraclely (is that a word???) better in 5 weeks! Here is my 6 week photo. I cut bangs and wore a little makeup. I still got Aunt Acne....she's fighting that lil' blue pill w/ all her strength and is so far continuing to win. Sigh...little blue pill...it's time for you to whoop some acne-you-know-what!!!!!!



MJS, don't be checkin' out my dirty laundry room to the left! :)


On the family front...my favorite cousin read my blog and called to apologize for her comment about the famous face! :) She said if she really meant I looked bad she would've ignored me all day b/c she wouldn't be able to tell me the truth!! That sounds pretty accurate so I really think she was just trying to make me laugh!  My MOTHER on the other hand is another story...she asked me a few days ago if my nostrils will always be this big. Seriously? I'm sure they flared a little MORE after that comment! Grrrrr....My nephew also made note of my cheeks commenting they look rather "full".

    So, needless to say, I'm a little discouraged w/ the comments of my fellow family members.   But, on a medical note: I am sleeping better,eating better and have an overall feeling of happiness in light of the acne, nostrils and cheeky cheeks! Some favorite foods include: avocados w/ sour  cream and salsa, re fried beans w/ pico de gallo, mushed up quiche Lorraine and of course the chopped-up chicken enchilada!

I have lost approx 12 lbs. and holding. I really need to start working out some. I've been pretty lazy but I plan on changing that. Don't we all????

My stitches are all dissolved except for a few on my upper incision.   I'm really working on stretching and massaging my face as my upper lip feels stiff. I guess this is common. Bottom lip is still numb but OS isn't worried about this yet as things are still healing and some residual swelling is still there. Well, that's all folks......

Have a Happy Happy Day

XOXOXOXOXO

E

One MONTH Post-OP

Sorry guys! I missed my exact one month post op party! :( We've had some things going on and I'm just now able to update.  But, I did take my pic on Thursday so I'm posting that. Things are going pretty slowly now. My OS appt. was a week ago and he took off my rubber bands for a whole week. It was really nice. I really worked on stretching my mouth and opening wide. I still have tons of canker sores all over the inside of my lips but I can't really feel them so it's only slightly annoying.  My next appt. with OS is in three weeks! He's still concerned w/ my left nostril and my breathing through it. I'm believing that it's just swelling that needs to calm down and I won't need the second "dreaded surgery". :(

I went to the Dermatologist on Monday. He gave me some cream samples (for my face and canker sores) and a prescription of Solodyn. I was hoping it was just hives, but he said it was acne and rosacea. So, this prescription costs $724 for a one month supply. Not even kidding!!!! My first month was free and insurance will only cover for "pre-approval"....well, we all know I've unsuccessfully been down that road before. So, I hope this little blue pill lives up to what he thinks he's worth and that I'm as smooth as a baby's butt in 30 days or less! I will NOT be purchasing this lil' blue pill after my free sample. I'm not THAT vain!!!!

I had my FIRST ortho appt. on Thursday. Very exciting stuff! He was impressed with my bite. Although I have a slight crossbite and my back molars don't touch he still thinks I can be out of braces in six months! I'm still banking on nine, but if it's earlier that'll be icing on the cake I will be eating then!!!!  He left my surgical hooks and wires on but added a power chain to top and bottom. I was glad as I feel that helps smooth things out and may help w/ the canker sore issue.  I had some of my stitches stuck between my back brackets and it was pulling on my incision. I was sooo thankful for them to cut that part off and get it out of there. It was causing some discomfort and now I have none over there!!! He also only put one rubber band on at this time. It's on my left side in a box shape. It's not heavy so I still have good range of motion! I was happy with my first appt. I see my Ortho again in 5 weeks.

Well, that's about all I have to update right now. I can't wait to post pics with my hair fixed and makeup on! My hair still bothers me to touch my face. I'm sure it's just my OCD. Every time it's down it seems to cling to my face from the lotions I've been wearing and it feels totally strange. ewwww.....

I still am completely numb in my bottom lip but my swelling seems to be going down nicely now and I'm hoping to get feeling back soon! :)

Enjoy your week! This is such a busy time of year for us moms w/ kids. Fall seems to be packed with field trips, festivals, sports, parades, etc. Lovin' every minute of it!

Oh! on a side note...I went to a family fish fry yesterday. Most of my family acknowledged I look different. I know I still have quite a bit of swelling, mostly in my upper lip.  I feel like a duck or fish or something. Anyway, my favorite cousin (because she's possibly reading this :) ) Noted I looked like someone famous. I started to smile and then she added with a laugh. "It's no one attractive though...." And the smile fades.....Thanks.....Like I'm not already self conscious and emotionally taxed as it is!!! Gotta love family right?? :)

Asinine Acne---3 Weeks Post-Op

Okay, so Aunt Acne came to visit and she won't LEAVE!!!! I'm literally about ready to become a hermit. I have been using toner and prescription cream but looks like she's decided to camp out on my FACE for awhile. Hopefully this too shall pass. I can just feel the oil oozing out of my pores. I wonder what causes these oils to go into overdrive???

Anyway, tomorrow I will be THREE weeks post op.  My swelling is still sticking around but I'm starting to feel much better. My energy level is up and I just feel like I'm HEALING. My OS gave the okay for me to start back up my muscle relaxer at bedtime which has helped me sleep tremendously. I still sleep on four pillows. OS said I only needed two but I feel much more comfortable w/ four as I still have lots of swelling...and it's allergy season.

Not much new news...my nose is drying up. I'm still drinking a lot of my meals. I may blend one meal a day to "cat food" consistency but it's still a lot of work to eat that way so I do a lot of drinks. Still some drooling and talking still tires me out but I can tell it's getting easier.  Over the weekend we went to my favorite Mexican restaurant. It was HELL, but I ordered something and ate a few refried bean w/ salsa and got home and blended my chicken enchilada with some salsa and chicken broth. It was HEAVENLY. The best meal yet! :) I don't really like ice cream much but I bought some Haagen Dazs caramel ice cream and now I'm addicted. So, some things are looking up. Took some pics of Aunt Acne...Also some new pics of smile/profile. I still have quite a bit of swelling (more on the left) so there's some asymmetry. I even notice it in my nostrils. I hope that one nostril calms down. It looks a little too perky! lol!

I see my OS on Thursday and he may give the okay to see my Ortho....we'll see. Also, I found out some CRUSHING news. My OS isn't going to file a second appeal to my insurance as the exclusions are so strong that they think I don't have a chance. So, I guess I can say... We spent A LOT of money and even though it's money well spent (I can already tell it's helping my ears, energy level, breathing, etc.) I still feel guilty.  Uncle Sam better give us a pretty darn good tax deduction is all I can say!

Here's my profile a month prior to surgery and at three weeks post-op and I still have quite a bit of swelling in my upper lip and lower jaw!! It still amazes me. I just want to stare!  Sorry about the hair. I'm just trying to keep it off my oily ole' face! :)

Have a great week everyone and HAPPY FALL!!!! Maybe we should celebrate w/ a pumpkin shake or something??? Any good recipes??? XOXOXOXO

Splint Removal....CHECK!

So, the splint removal went much easier than expected. I didn't even need a local as I was still completely numb. It was attached to my upper teeth with wires that went around each tooth and connected to my braces wire. He used some little tool and it cut all the wires in only about 7 minutes. The only time I freaked out was when it was hanging by like one wire and I thought I was going to swallow it. I can talk much better without it. I feel like my saliva is still plentiful and I still "slurp" it. Eating's not much easier either. I guess I imagined removing the splint would magically make everything go away. I know I just need to be patient. *NOTE: This is not my splint but mine looked very similar.

Friday I got my hair trimmed (and a few bangs). It made me feel better but I think I overdid it on Thursday and I have felt pretty crummy the past couple days. My OS said everything looked great and I was healing nicely. I have another appt. next Thursday and he said depending on how things look then that he may go ahead and send me back to my Ortho.

I'm kinda anxious to see my Ortho. My back teeth don't touch, I still have a little cross bite and I feel like I still have an overbite. I'm curious on his opinion. I know I will worry about this as I'm a freak about my teeth. That's the only downfall to having the splint out. With it in I knew my bite was where it was supposed to be, with it out, I have NO IDEA. I still have two rubber bands up close on my teeth that I can take out to eat and brush. OS said my ortho will probably do some different band configurations to fix the cross bite. I think he wants HIM to be the bad guy! lol :) I don't blame him. He's such a nice guy!

Well, I didn't post any pics this time...sorry. I actually got really swollen after Thurs (from overdoing it) and I have totally broken out in zits all over. I have been cleaning my face as often as I can. After surgery my oil glands went in to overdrive and it's been crazy oily. Now, I'm just trying to get this teenage adolescence look under control. :( I'm emotionally at the bottom of the roller coaster today.

Sorry to be such a downer. Hope you all are doing well in whatever stage you're in. XOXOX

Make Like a Banana Smoooothie and SPLINT!!

Okay, I know I'm a dork. Can't help it, I was born that way. Well....big applause....today is two weeks post-op and I have survived! Things are still looking pretty good. Swelling is still going down. Just very slowly. No more nausea. Yay! And my mood is picking up. I am having issues sleeping and am actually in pain during the night, which is strange because I'm pretty comfortable during the day. I will ask my OS about this tomorrow when I get my SPLINT out!!!! I'm very excited. They called today and said I will be getting a local to numb everything (as if everything isn't already numb) and I can take a pain pill for my own piece of mind. My mom's taking me so I don't have to worry about driving.

I'm still drooling, and actually having a harder time talking, but I'm thinking all of this will improve tomorrow after I get that splint out. I have pretty much stuck to blended meals. I have tried some mashed potato texture type stuff but it only got me and my splint messy so I figured I could hold off until tomorrow. Can you tell I can't wait until then???? I'm getting very tired of this splint.

I've lost about 7 lbs and holding. I've done pretty well to keep my calories up. I could actually benefit to lose about 10 more lbs. but I'll def wait until I'm healed. Now is not the time to diet!

So, funny story...Yesterday was a beautiful day and my daughter, dog and I decided to take a walk around the block. We got almost all the way home when these two dogs w/ the electric fence collars were "harassing" us. It was no big deal, but the owner stopped to talk to us for a few minutes. I tried to hurry up as I really don't feel comfortable carrying on a convo w/ complete strangers at this stage. So we scooted on home and as we got inside and I passed the mirror I had a flashback of Dumb and Dumber. You know....where they were on the motorcycle????? It went something like this...

Remember that???? When he had snot hanging all the way down to his lips????? Well....there I was--in that same position. I am completely numb and had no idea I was sporting this look. I had to call my husband right away. He just laughed and laughed and said, "Well, at least no one SAW you." Um, yeah, I actually carried on a complete conversation like this, I guess.  Maybe that's why the dogs were barking at me? They were making fun!! lol. Nothing I can do about it now.  I'm sure I've embarrassed myself beyond this measure a time or two.

Well, that's about all the news for now. I'll post a new pic later after my splint comes out and I get my hair trimmed on Friday. I am still debating getting bangs. I'll ask my hairdresser what she thinks.

Have a great evening.  Prayers go out to June (fellow blogger friend) who is having her hardware removed tomorrow due to infection. We hope you have an easy recovery and you stay healed! XOXOX

  GOOOOOOOO CHIEFSSSSSSS!!!

Day 11 Post-Op!!!

Okay, I'm 11 days post-op. I can't believe I'm this close to two weeks. This will be my first full week of "back to normalcy" as I say. Eric is back to work full-time...house duties, bills, kids, etc are all back to my responsibility. I'm ready for it though...I need life to get back to normal.

I'm feeling pretty good for the most part. Yesterday we had my son's first soccer game and then had a family get-together at my sister's house. I played croquet and blended some zucchini casserole and some "vanilla" oreo's w/ milk (at separate times! lol) and got pretty wore out. I think my body wasn't used to that rich of food and of course being up and about all day so I'm a little lazy today. I did get up and go to church but I think I'm just going to eat soup today and lay low a little.

I'm getting more feeling in my face each day. I actually think I'm having a harder time talking (not sure why) but I get the splint out on Thurs. so I'm not worrying about it right now. Swelling is still going down. Slowly but surely. I posted a new pic. I don't really like this pic but o'well. I do still have swelling and of course I'm not wearing make up. I don't know when I'll go that far....My hair...is another issue. Because of the stress, and the change in diet I've been loosing ALOT. And let me tell you...I don't have alot to lose. There's nothing I can do about it though so I can't dwell. I do need to get it trimmed and it's funny...I think my hair looks different now that my face shape is a little different. I'm debating cutting bangs. I guess I'll wait another couple weeks to see what my face looks like then!

I'm still drooling some and I have got in a habit of making this "clucking" type noise as I suck the saliva back in my mouth. It was so funny...we were at my sister's house yesterday checking out the peacock eggs she is incubating. My other sis and I were leaning down real close to look in the incubator when I decided to suck my saliva....making the clucking noise.  She was like "what was that???" as she peered in to the incubator. I think she thought one of the peacocks were hatching!!! I sure hated to bust her bubble!

Really not much more news. I take my rubber bands out once a day and try to do open/close mouth exercises. I can open my mouth almost two fingers. Don't know if this is good or bad. I also finished my amoxicillin so I'm done w/ all prescriptions. Yay! I just pray I stay healthy and get NO INFECTIONS.

I've always had trouble w/ my ears getting very full and getting infected.  Especially this time of year...so far they haven't been. I totally believe that this surgery had helped (and will continue) to help my ears. I know the Dr's don't believe that this could help my ears but I seriously do. I also love my sister who is my biggest cheerleader. I know she is believing right a long with me! If you ever read this...Thank you Paula! XOXO

Welp, that's it for today.

1 Week Post-Op!!!!!

Hello all! I am still alive and I FEEL much more alive! Let me tell you something. Everyone talks about that Day 3 mark. Well, for me it must've been Day(s) 3-5 because those days all felt the same for me. They were the worst! Not just physically, but emotionally as well. I am now a week post-op and things are looking up! I have more energy and a much more positive outlook than originally. Not sure if the meds got me down or what but I'm off of everything except one more day of antibiotics and over the counter Ibuprofen. I think today I'll go get a humidifier and some natural sleep aid. I'm still sleeping on several pillows on my back and it's not the most comfortable.

I met w/ the OS yesterday. He took another pano. He said everything looked great and my swelling was very minimal (although my left side is a little more swollen than right). I scheduled an appt. for NEXT Thursday to get my splint taken out. I'm a little nervous b/c they asked if I was getting completely put out or a little sedated to have this done. I wasn't aware it was going to be painful???? I told them I wouldn't need anything.  Now, I've decided to take my mom along in case I become a baby and need some kind of medication.  Has anyone heard if this is supposed to be painful? Why would I need sedated? He said the wires aren't between teeth or anything.  OS also put some weaker rubber bands in so I can move my mouth a little more. Although, the bands are very close up front so I don't have alot of room if I wanted to use a spoon or something.

I'm "allowed" to have mashed potatoes and stuff but I'd rather stick to the blended meals. It's faster, easier and I get more "bang for the buck". :) I'm all about efficiency! I still have a lot of muscle milk, chicken broth and soups. I also have blended oatmeal and last night had a piece of fried (boneless) chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy mixed w/ milk and blended. It was the best meal yet! I also bought quiche to blend and chicken pot pie. Let me tell you... my Vitamix might of cost a lot but it has been heavenly!!!!!  My hubby was much impressed. He's been using it as well.

My other purchase that was much enjoyed is my Waterpik. I am allowed to use it on my teeth on the lowest setting. It has proven to be much more effective at cleaning my teeth/mouth than anything else. I also add salt water at times to help soothe my mouth. Very good choice!!! One more good purchase was the 'moist heat' heating pad. The first 24-48 hours you want to ice your face, but after that it won't help anymore w/ the swelling and the moist heat feels really nice...and aids in healing.

Well, I think that's it for today. I overdid it a little yesterday w/ my OS appt., then we went to Sam's Club and my sister's house for dinner. I'm a little tired this morning so I think I'll take it easy. It's my hubby's last day home so I'm going to take advantage. Thank you so much for prayers and encouragement. It has really helped me through those "dark hours". I'll keep all of you in my prayers as well. XOXOXO E

Day 6 Post-Op

Well, I must say things are getting better. With that comes wanting to "eat" and "talk" and all of those things that are frustrating right now. I still get tired pretty easily and very nauseous. Not sure why as I've pretty much stopped pain meds except for occasional Ibuprofen and the antibiotics they have me on. Maybe that's it? I see my OS on Wednesday so I'm going to ask about this. I also have a very dry mouth and lots of nasal stuff. Which I would anyway since it's allergy season. I'm concerned about my lips not closing. I know the OS said he had to cut a lot of muscles right there so maybe I just need to do some exercises to get it back? I tried to put my lips around a straw and can't. Hopefully that'll change. This is probably also why I'm drooling so much.  I'll ask on Wed. My swelling is going down some. It's still pretty swollen on my left side of face and I'm starting to bruise on my chin and even down my neck. But, things are improving! Thankfully! Eric is staying home Wed and Thurs and will return to work on Friday. He has a meeting tomorrow he HAS to attend so my wonderful neighbor is going to watch Emry for a few hours to help out.  Well, here are Day 6 photos. I tried to smile in the second one! lol!

Day 4 Post Op

I just noticed how I have drool all over my shirt and sunglasses on my head! I look like such dork! Oh well, I really haven't cared much about that these past couple of days.  Today seemed a little better. One big piece of advice I can give is to push yourself to actually drink from a cup. You get so much more this way than w/ the syringe. Also, I pushed myself to swallow pills instead of the liquid meds. These also seem to work longer/better. Then if you can do this you can also take a multi-vitamin.  I hope my swelling starts to go down soon. I had a little "variety" today. Muscle milk, an EAS shake, tomato soup, lots of chicken broth. It really helped w/ my nausea. I've been trying to get my mouth cleaned out. I just have this really bad taste no matter what I do. :( My kids are  coming home tonight. I'm so excited to see them. I know they'll raise my spirits. Eric is still home until Tues morning. Then it's all on me...my son will be in Kindergarten all day but I will have my daughter home w/ me. This has been making me nervous. I don't know what I'm going to do. Hoping that I can be able to manage and just nap when she does.

I can't wait to be at that place where you say...I'm sooo happy I did this! I know it will come. I'm just very impatient...and I'm a constant drooling mess!!!

Day 3 Post-Op Photos

Yesterday was day three post surgery. I had surgery Tuesday afternoon and came home Thursday night. Friday I was seen back in the OS office for a follow up. He said everything looked good and that my swelling was minimal. I don't feel at all like it's minimal! My eyeballs hurt because everything is so swollen and I can't breathe through my nose at all. I think I feel like such a freak that it's taking it out of me emotionally! I just want to get better already. I'm nervous around my kids, my dog, my husband! I just look and feel like a huge bloated fish!

I'm still taking pain meds and anti-nausea meds. I actually hadn't been nauseous until today. I also choke down chicken broth and muscle milk daily. I started out w/ Ensure but it was a little thicker than the muscle milk so now I'm drinking it. Doesn't taste the greatest but it has those calories and protein needed to heal...and I want to HEAL!!!!

I didn't sleep well at all last night. I have all the pillows propped up and can't breathe. I'm just hoping I can manage when Eric goes back to work on Tuesday. That's what's making me nervous.  I'm in charge of this house and I feel HELPLESS. :(

Elishia the Chipmunk!!!

just posting pics. i'll update later. Pretty swollem and doped up.  Surgery took approx 5 hours. Didn't even need the chin implant as my lower jaw came forwar 10mm,. That's one FULL cm.  I also went up 5mm on top and out 2mm. Can't wait for swelling to go down and blood clots out of nose. But doimg "okay" XOXO. Of course the one's w/ less swellimg is right after surgery. The other two are from today. Gotta get  back to bed!zzzzz

I Got the "Hook" Ups!!!

So, I def got  the "hook" ups on Wednesday! I went to the Ortho and he placed five surgical hooks on top and three on bottom. I don't think they'll be using them all but just wanted the extra in there in case. My daughter was with me at that appt. (she's three) and I think I scarred her for life. I had all of these wires hanging out of my mouth. I wish I had a photo! Anyway, the hooks were no big deal. It took about an hour to get it all in there but they didn't give any discomfort. The only issue I had was that I couldn't sleep on my side anymore so now I'm only sleeping on my back. I guess I better get used to that anyway! Besides, Dr. Oz says it's best for you to sleep that way! :)

Thurs was my final appt. with OS before SURGERY. This appt lasted approx two hours. They took a pan x-ray and several impressions on my top teeth and bottom, plus some "bite" impressions for a splint (I think) and took vitals, etc. Everything looked great and I feel a huge peace with my OS and staff. He is super nice and calm (which is important to me!!!) and never made us feel rushed. My Hubby had lots of questions (and probably repeated several) and they never once acted "annoyed". I'm very secure in our choice of OS. He also introduced us to the cosmetic surgeon that assists him in the OR. Sorry, but no projected photos. OS told us that they used to do them but then it may give you a false idea if things don't happen just like that and you may be disappointed. It makes sense! Ultimately his goal is to get my bite, function and breathing corrected first and foremost. I totally understand that. So, I told Eric to make sure and take photos right after surgery before the swelling takes over.

Originally they thought I would need a 2-segment Lefort but after reviewing the models I'll only need a Lefort I. Very excited about this as it will be a little easier recovery and less time in the OR. Surgery is expect to take 3-4 hours. They'll do my upper jaw first. Expect to go up approx. 4 mm and out a little. Lower jaw is expected to go out approx. 8 mm and then a chin implant.

I have to be at the hospital at 9:30 am on Tuesday and surgery will start approx. Noon. I am super duper nervous. I can't even begin to describe my anxiety. I'm more anxious worrying about my kids, Hubby and animals. I actually get wobbly in the legs. We watched the movie Extreme Measures last night and I plan on watching the show I Shouldn't Have Survived. This totally makes me know that if they can go through THAT stuff, I can do this! ;)

*Note: Just realized the show is called I Shouldn't Be Alive...this is how out of it I am! lol! :)

I have to say that I am so thankful to have such a supportive Hubby, sister and bloggin' friends. My sister is eight years older than me but she is like my best friend. She has always looked out for me and knows how sick I was as a kid. She believes in this as much as I do and I'm thankful for that. Even though she always teased me around the house calling me "Bucky Beaver". lol! I still love her!!! XOXOXO

The Countdown is OOOOONNNNNN

Okay, so tomorrow will be one week until my upper, lower jaw surgery w/ genioplasty. I cannot believe it's been over a year since I began this journey. My how time flies...and stands still at the same time! I go for my surgical hooks on Wednesday and my super duper appt. with the OS on Thursday to get exact measurements, draw blood, $$PAY$$, etc. :)
Insurance denied again..no surprise...so I am filing a second level appeal and having my OS suggest it be reviewed by an MD who specializes in this field. He says I have an open bite which is a skeletal defect so we'll see.

I am gearing up for the big day. I am setting up a bed downstairs w/ everything I need. Which is really NOTHING but a bunch of pillows, chap stick, nose spray, TV and some books. I have no clue what I'm in for. lol! I also bought some vitawater, lots of chicken broth, carnation instant breakfast, ensure and emergen-c (which I have been taking everyday to get my vit C up!).

I received a call from the hospital last week going over my meds that I can/cannot take. I mostly only take vitamins anyway, but I have to discontinue my Osteo-Bio flex, Omega 3's and Excedrin Migraine. This one was the HARDEST.  I've been getting lots of migraines since my last braces adjustment and w/ the allergy season upon us it has been miserable. I got the WORST migraine last week and thought I was going to start puking...I hadn't purchased any Tylenol yet (which is the only "safe" med to take) so I took the Excedrin anyway and then headed up to buy some Tylenol. Thankfully, I haven't had any episodes since. I guess I didn't realize how much I relied on the Excedrin. I hope this surgery helps my migraines. I've had them since I was about 8 years old. They were really unbearable until I discovered the Excedrin....I should sponsor them! lol!!!

Last weekend I took a little weekend trip w/ my best friend of 20 years. We had a really good weekend. The only problem was that the water was AWFUL there and I'm totally reliant on my bottle of water. Especially at bedtime when my mouth gets so dry from all the "mouth breathing". Anyway, I woke up w/ my dry mouth and cheeks that had STUCK to the brackets of my braces. It must've ripped some skin b/c I am now battling w/ several canker sores on the insides of my cheeks. It's AWFUL to eat and I'm pretty peeved about this considering this is my last week of eating for awhile and I wanted to go out in STYLE!  :) They're getting a little better so I think I can up my eating  in the very near future. I'm holding nothing back this week!!!

My oldest boy just started Kindergarten this past week. I think it's been an adjustment for him and some stress for me but it's getting better. I'm just glad that he has a couple weeks to get used to it before my surgery. Thankfully he'll be off from school the Friday and Monday following my surgery so that should make it easier.

Oh, I almost forgot! The nurse that called said I should make sure and bring some button down shirts to wear for awhile after surgery so I don't "bump" my face. I hadn't considered that. I guess I should buy some????  Was this a problem for anyone??? anyone???

Progress in Progress!!!

So....I met with my Oral Surgeon yesterday and progress has been made. He was very impressed with the models that were sent from my Orthodontist's office and said I'm ready for take off!

Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, August 31st as long as there is an opening at the Surgi Center they use. I am so excited. I'm also excited where the surgery is being performed as it will not only cost less but there are private rooms with Wi/Fi. Not so sure I'll be feeling well enough to update while hospitalized but we'll see! :)

I will have my surgical hooks put on one week prior and also have my long 2+ hour appt. w/ the Surgeon to go over the exact measurements and have all my diagnostics done, etc. His "guess" is that I will probably go up approx 4mm on my upper jaw and out 5 mm on my bottom. I was told this will dramatically change my life and increase breathing DOUBLE from my mouth and my nose. I couldn't be happier. You can't put a price on that. I've spent my whole life struggling w/ breathing issues and this is such a big deal to me (and my husband). I am also impressed with the Surgeon. He is so kind and makes me feel like this is just as important to him as it is us.

He still hasn't decided if I will need a two piece Lefort or just one. He'll know at that long appt. If he decides on two pieces the surgery will be about an hour longer (3-5 hour surgery) and I will have a splint in place. I will not be "wired" shut but have rubber bands on my teeth and will have braces approx. 9 months after surgery. He's guessing a 2-3 night hospital stay.  The Surgeon also mentioned that I may still have some gums showing when I smile because my teeth are so short. I guess they have another surgery that can be done later where they laser your gums so you have more enamel showing. No thank you! I'll stick with my short teeth. I don't plan on adding any additional $$$$ signs! :)

In the insurance avenue....My Surgeon recommend that I insist the records being reviewed by another Maxiofacial Surgeon as it will show my open bite and the fact that it's a skeletal defect that needs to be corrected. He was also going to have the office manager call my insurance again to pressure them some more. We'll see what happens. He DID tell me not to give up and keep fighting! That's all I needed to hear to get my gloves back on and get back in the ring for another round! :)

Hope everyone is doing well. Summer is almost over. I'm looking forward to fall and some butternut squash soup! :)

XOXOXOXO

Wide Open Spaces....

So, I feel like progress has been made! I had my records appointment on Monday with my Orthodontist. They took pictures, several x-rays and molds. They said they would try to get records to my Oral Surgeon by the end of the day so I'm calling tomorrow to see if they've received them and when I can schedule my appointment! I'm really excited about this. I have not seen my Oral Surgeon since the consult last September. 

*Note* they did call in a muscle relaxer for me so I'm happy about that. I've only needed to take a 1/2 of one the night after ortho appt. but it really DOES help.

I now have the wire on that they will use for surgery. I've had a heavy wire and powerchain on my top teeth for awhile now, but they just put the heavy wire and powerchain on the bottom. Ouch...it was not fun that first night.

In Insurance news...I received a letter from the State of Missouri letting me know they forwarded my complaint to Kansas since that's where our insurance was issued. We live in Missouri but my husband's company is based out of Kansas so I guess that's why. We live really close to state line.  Anyway, I followed up and found out they will be issuing a "Reviewer" this week and they could possibly have a decision by 45 days! I'm anxious to find out how this whole process works. Well, here are the pics the orthodontist's office took.

EWWWW

It's crazy how much my teeth have MOVED in year. Notice how open my bite is? I have a pretty good crossbite too. I seriously have like NO teeth touching except for the molar in back. I also took some "home" pics so you could see my bite from the underside and up close, but I added them to the "smile file" as I do not care to look at them anymore than I have to! :) Hope everyone is doing well on their journey and enjoying the summer. It's hard to believe it's almost time for school to start!!!

XOXOXO   E

P.S. I went to the dentist and found out I have a cavity in the back bottom molar. My dentist wants to fill it w/ the silver filling because it's stronger and lasts longer. Most people go with the tooth colored filling even though they don't last as long. My dentist really trying to encourage me to get the silver one but, honestly, I'm SICK of looking at silver and would really prefer the tooth colored. My ortho says do what I want...I'm torn....

The Ultimate Soccer Mom!!!

Well, last week was a fun and crazy week. We hosted two soccer coaches from England in our home while we had the Challenger British Soccer Camp in town. The guys were great and it was fun to have them around and fretting over them all week. They eat ALOT of food. I guess that's what I have to expect when my kids become teenagers-that and all their friends. LOL!  I really loved the accent. I felt like every time they told me how wonderful my food was that I was being complimented by Chef Ramsey himself! :)

They left on Sunday and I was much more depressed about it than I realized. My husband was as well. He never had any siblings and he really bonded with one of the guys. We both cried after they left. :( I RARELY take pics with my braces on so this is a treat. I was actually whining about it and Simon, the one with blonde hair, said let's all make mad faces to hide your braces. Of course my face didn't turn out so mad! Showing my braces, gums and all in full American Pride....

It was a nice break from my reality of "THE JAWS". I got my denial letter in the mail on Saturday. I wasn't really surprised. Insurance companies are so rich it isn't funny. The thing I was most peeved about was their reason (if you can call it that) which really hopscotched around everything. It stated:

"Member has submitted appeal of the denial for orthognathic surgery, and included information from her birth.  The medical records identify bruising and skin changes about the face; however, these physical findings would not have occurred as a result of a birth defect per se.  Therefore, please uphold the contractual denial for this surgery request."

Ugh...I was so fuming! I mean, first off, I wasn't saying it was a birth defect...I stated it was an accidental injury that resulted in this. Also, the medical records didn't say "skin changes". It was very clear in saying there was hemorrhaging, bruising and severe swelling. I also included a JAMA article talking about birth injuries and the jaw and mentioned all of the medical issues I've had SINCE BIRTH. They didn't even look at this stuff. So, instead of causing myself a panic attack I have said forget Blue Cross and Blue Shield and have issued a complaint with the State of Missouri Department of Insurance. They are an impartial party and will review all documents and make their decision based on ALL evidence. It may take them awhile so I'm sure I'll just go forward, pay the surgery as planned, and wait for good news from the state! Do you know of anyone who has filed this type of complaint and how it worked out for them????

My records appointment is Monday! I'm tempted to just call my Oral Surgeon to go ahead and schedule my appointment with them but I have a feeling they won't do that. I've had issues with clenching my teeth at night and it gets worse with hormone changes and stress. I've noticed it more lately now that things are getting closer to D-Day. I was prescribed muscle relaxers (last year!) that I would take a couple evenings a month to help but I'm out and the Oral Surgeon won't prescribe any more. Is that normal? It's not like I'm addicted. I've had the same bottle for over 8 months! 

I also plan on calling my husband's company to see how much more money we have in our medical spending account. I'm thinking it's around $1,600 so that'll be good to put down on the surgery. One lady posted that her company helped pay her surgery that wasn't covered by insurance, but I don't know how comfortable I would feel asking my husband's company if they had something in place like that...I'm not the one that works there..you know?? 

Well, I better get to my phone calls. I DO plan on posting "mouth pics" now that things are pretty much where they're supposed to be. I just get anxious. I don't even post pics of me in braces on Facebook---I don't even kiss my husband on the mouth! How pathetic am I??? My poor, poor husband. So thankful he's understanding. I'm sure he'll be expecting lots of kisses once this is all over with...

XOXOXOX :)

Fingers Crossed......

Okay, so I went to my ortho appointment last week and they DID NOT take impressions, molds, surgery records--whatever you want to call it. The ortho wanted to make one more adjustment to one of my bottom teeth but they scheduled my impressions for July 26th so I'm excited about that. I called the Oral Surgeon's office to see how soon surgery would be scheduled after that and she said we still wouldn't know until after they view these records. I must say that I'm getting very anxious! Ortho still believes surgery will be scheduled for September sometime.

In other news...I got a part-time job as a preschool teacher at a church here in town. I'm VERY excited about this as I have not had a job since I went into labor with my six year old son! He starts Kindergarten this year and my lil' girl is now three so this will be a nice little adventure for us. The preschool has the same schedule as the school district so I will be off when my son will. I couldn't ask for a better situation.  Of course pay isn't much but honestly, it's more about the social aspect of it for me. I'm just excited to get out and about in this small lil' town and get out of this house! They're very understanding as far as this surgery goes and I won't really start the job until after I'm healed...just wondering how long that will take????

Soooo....please pray and keep your fingers crossed.  I worked very hard on my insurance appeal and sent it off last Monday. I know they have to respond w/in 30 days so I'm hoping for good news. My exclusion is very "exclusive"! For them to cover it has NOTHING to do w/ how bad I need the surgery or any medical issues I have. The exclusion states that I must have been diagnosed w/ a birth defect w/in 30 days of birth (which I wasn't, of course) or that I have an accidental injury.  In that instance, surgery would have to be performed w/in one year of incident (unless unable to be performed w/in that time period for medical reasons). So, that's my fight...I have birth records showing injury to my face during labor. In several records it makes note of my bruised head and face and hemorrhages on my face. I found a medical journal dated around the time of my birth that states that even though facial injuries are rare in infants that it CAN happen and that nothing would be done at that time until the person had time to develop and see how noticeable the injuries were. So, of course nothing could be performed w/in one year of the incident. I know it's a stretch. Especially since insurance companies love to deny EVERYTHING but I am praying it'll be enough to get it covered. If not we'll just have to pay ourselves and it'll be a nice chunk to deduct on taxes this year! LOL. But regardless, PRAY & KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED and I'll keep checking the mail! XOXOXOXO

9 Months and Counting...Feeling Overdue

Okay, so I've had my top braces on for over 9 months now and my bottom braces on almost 7 months. My bite is getting worse all the time (in preparation for surgery) and I'm feeling ready to do this thing!  The only experience I can compare it to is my first pregnancy.  In the beginning I was very excited. I couldn't wait to begin to see and feel the changes that would take place over the next nine months...I wanted to document every little detail.  For instance, taking pictures of my growing belly.  As you can see in the photo, I was very excited to be showing. The little paper I was holding up stated I was proudly 17 weeks pregnant and even had a cute little smiley face next to it!

As weeks sped by I continued to take pictures of my growing belly while sporting the same outfit. At 23 weeks I can't say that I was as "smiley"  as I was at 17 weeks, but I was definitely still very excited and amazed at the little life moving inside my growing belly.

As time wore on and the cuteness wore off I quickly grew tired of all the details that had preoccupied my time. I was just ready to have my little baby already!!! I feel the same way regarding this jaw surgery.

My next ortho appointment is on Wednesday. My orthodontist made a note at my last visit that there would "possibly" be impressions taken at this appointment. I don't really know what that means or how soon the ball will get rolling after impressions but I feel it's a start. Maybe sort of like those Braxton Hicks contractions??? :)

It's very humid here in the Midwest. Like 78% humidity...I feel like a 38.3 week old pregnant woman with swollen cankles who is retaining all her water. How is that, you ask???? Well.....My guess it that would look a little something like this.......

Sorry! I just couldn't help myself. Misery LOVES company! I figured that if I'm going to be posting some not so nice photos of a bloody, disfigured face I might as well throw these in as well! lol.
 
But, back to my comparisons on my jaw surgery journey and pregnancy...I think it's a great idea that your family and friends throw a baby shower for you during the last trimester of pregnancy. No better way to help get your mind off the swollen cankles and get your focus on that little miracle that is soon on it's way by receiving gifts to brighten your day.
 
What I'm trying to do is justify my "showering" of gifts to myself. I have to admit, I am not one to spend much on myself AT ALL. But I threw all caution to the wind and decided to venture out and pick out a couple items for my upcoming "event".  First, I purchased a Waterpik, which I am still a little unsure of. I am glad that the only thing in it is water because I have sprayed myself, the sink, counters and even the back of my throat (the water ended up coming out my nose-not sure how that happened). So, needless to say, this is a relationship that is probably going to need some work.
 
I also purchased a brand new Vitamix which was shipped to my front door today! I'm very excited about this. There were tons of recipes for soups, smoothies, drinks, sauces, etc. I bought my kids those little Popsicle freezer things so I could make some fresh freezer pops for them. Next week I am (or my loving husband is) treating me to an hour massage. My neck and upper back is really feeling the stress from all of this "adjusting" so I'm really looking forward to it! No hurt in "showering" myself a little is there?
 
Well, I need to get to work on my insurance appeal. It's probably a waste of time. There are so many super exclusions in my policy that it's going to be difficult to fight it but I'm going to go all out trying!
 
Then, maybe I'll put my cankles up and drink a nice cold fruit smoothie! lol! XOXOXOXO