Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 Hi - I think this basically sums up my feelings too. I'm due to have surgery on Dec 15th and I'm totally dreading it. I swing from one side to the other on whether to go ahead with it or not depending on my mood - I think the main issue I have is that it's ultimately cosmetic (in my case) and 100% elective - the reality of this only sets in when surgery is approaching not when you begin orthodontics. On the other hand, I know that if I cancelled it, I'd suffer in the way you probably are now with " what if " issues - 2 years of ortho for nothing . No win situation!!! People in favour will tell you that it's a routine procedure that rarely has complications, and if they occur, they're generally minor. I'm probably taking more risks with my life by simply living in London by comparison. Yet this risk doesn't drive me to move to the country. Never the less, the fact still remains that (in my case and I think for most) it's an unnecessary risk!! And that's the bit I'm finding it hard to deal with. What type of surgery were you due for? Mine's the simplest form of lower only. I honestly think you'd do well to get someone to talk to about this (a councillor maybe), as you're probably doing more damage to your health worrying about it constantly than surgery its self!! make the decision and don't look back.......I wish I could take my own advice!!! all the best - I wish you well Greg > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 Hi - I think this basically sums up my feelings too. I'm due to have surgery on Dec 15th and I'm totally dreading it. I swing from one side to the other on whether to go ahead with it or not depending on my mood - I think the main issue I have is that it's ultimately cosmetic (in my case) and 100% elective - the reality of this only sets in when surgery is approaching not when you begin orthodontics. On the other hand, I know that if I cancelled it, I'd suffer in the way you probably are now with " what if " issues - 2 years of ortho for nothing . No win situation!!! People in favour will tell you that it's a routine procedure that rarely has complications, and if they occur, they're generally minor. I'm probably taking more risks with my life by simply living in London by comparison. Yet this risk doesn't drive me to move to the country. Never the less, the fact still remains that (in my case and I think for most) it's an unnecessary risk!! And that's the bit I'm finding it hard to deal with. What type of surgery were you due for? Mine's the simplest form of lower only. I honestly think you'd do well to get someone to talk to about this (a councillor maybe), as you're probably doing more damage to your health worrying about it constantly than surgery its self!! make the decision and don't look back.......I wish I could take my own advice!!! all the best - I wish you well Greg > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 RELAX!!! the anticipation is always worse than the actual procedure. the unneccesary stress from worrying about it can manifest in many ways. for me it was hives. resign yourself to the fact that you've done your homework, picked a surgeon you trust, and prepared for recovery. recovery is more uncomfortable than painful and goes by quickly. Once you realize that it's a done deal you'll relax and start looking forward to being on the other side. good luck and god bless eric > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 RELAX!!! the anticipation is always worse than the actual procedure. the unneccesary stress from worrying about it can manifest in many ways. for me it was hives. resign yourself to the fact that you've done your homework, picked a surgeon you trust, and prepared for recovery. recovery is more uncomfortable than painful and goes by quickly. Once you realize that it's a done deal you'll relax and start looking forward to being on the other side. good luck and god bless eric > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 I am sorry to hear this was such a negative impact on your life...but most impt is to do what is best for you...we all talk about that - no " right " choice, only your choice. May I ask what your other option is that you decided upon and have you spoken with a therapist about the changes in your life? Might be a good idea-I think most people have something to talk to a therapist about if given the oppty and it's a good thing to do (not crazy- that's so old school)...and well, I would think about this, bec if you are young and plan on having children perhaps this is something that could reoccur if you had any struggle with the pregnancy or what not...mind you, I pray that it wouldn't, but it sounds like this was SO intense on you, I would look at all sides for your long term well being. Hang in there, JO > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 I am sorry to hear this was such a negative impact on your life...but most impt is to do what is best for you...we all talk about that - no " right " choice, only your choice. May I ask what your other option is that you decided upon and have you spoken with a therapist about the changes in your life? Might be a good idea-I think most people have something to talk to a therapist about if given the oppty and it's a good thing to do (not crazy- that's so old school)...and well, I would think about this, bec if you are young and plan on having children perhaps this is something that could reoccur if you had any struggle with the pregnancy or what not...mind you, I pray that it wouldn't, but it sounds like this was SO intense on you, I would look at all sides for your long term well being. Hang in there, JO > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 I truly believe that the anticipation is worse then the actually procedures, depending on what you are having done. My daughter was having difficulty in school several months before her surgical date, this was after wearing her braces for 1 1/2 years. The surgery was very much on her mind, she refused to check out this chat line or any web sites. She refused to discuss the surgery at all. When school was over and all of her exams, she kept soooooooooooo busy.... The day before her surgery she went and got her diving permit.... She says she has no regrets. At one point I did suggest counseling but we have a pretty good relationship and discuss everything. I knew what was wrong and so did she. Anticipation is the worst part (at least for her) of this whole ordeal... From a mom who survived!! Re: obsession I am sorry to hear this was such a negative impact on your life...but most impt is to do what is best for you...we all talk about that - no " right " choice, only your choice. May I ask what your other option is that you decided upon and have you spoken with a therapist about the changes in your life? Might be a good idea-I think most people have something to talk to a therapist about if given the oppty and it's a good thing to do (not crazy- that's so old school)...and well, I would think about this, bec if you are young and plan on having children perhaps this is something that could reoccur if you had any struggle with the pregnancy or what not...mind you, I pray that it wouldn't, but it sounds like this was SO intense on you, I would look at all sides for your long term well being. Hang in there, JO > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 I truly believe that the anticipation is worse then the actually procedures, depending on what you are having done. My daughter was having difficulty in school several months before her surgical date, this was after wearing her braces for 1 1/2 years. The surgery was very much on her mind, she refused to check out this chat line or any web sites. She refused to discuss the surgery at all. When school was over and all of her exams, she kept soooooooooooo busy.... The day before her surgery she went and got her diving permit.... She says she has no regrets. At one point I did suggest counseling but we have a pretty good relationship and discuss everything. I knew what was wrong and so did she. Anticipation is the worst part (at least for her) of this whole ordeal... From a mom who survived!! Re: obsession I am sorry to hear this was such a negative impact on your life...but most impt is to do what is best for you...we all talk about that - no " right " choice, only your choice. May I ask what your other option is that you decided upon and have you spoken with a therapist about the changes in your life? Might be a good idea-I think most people have something to talk to a therapist about if given the oppty and it's a good thing to do (not crazy- that's so old school)...and well, I would think about this, bec if you are young and plan on having children perhaps this is something that could reoccur if you had any struggle with the pregnancy or what not...mind you, I pray that it wouldn't, but it sounds like this was SO intense on you, I would look at all sides for your long term well being. Hang in there, JO > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. Hope this helps you! For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. Hope this helps you! For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 Yes I have been freaking out, I have made yet another appointment for a fourth opinion. It is next tuesday. Hopefully I will be even more informed aftter that. I am determined not to let this not ruin my life. I just want to be able to look forward to something and not be concernced. Thanks everyone for your words it is very comforting to hear your responses. I guess I am starting to feel like a big wimp about all of this. Vhurgo wrote:Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. Hope this helps you! For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 Yes I have been freaking out, I have made yet another appointment for a fourth opinion. It is next tuesday. Hopefully I will be even more informed aftter that. I am determined not to let this not ruin my life. I just want to be able to look forward to something and not be concernced. Thanks everyone for your words it is very comforting to hear your responses. I guess I am starting to feel like a big wimp about all of this. Vhurgo wrote:Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. Hope this helps you! For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 You are not being a wimp. I think it is the fear of the unknown. Braces are very common and the reasons for getting them are known by all and accepted. Surgery is not as known - I had never heard about it before this and that is why I freaked out. We have no idea of what to expect at all. And unfortunately doctors only gloss over it when explaining what they are going to do to you. Maybe it will take the right doctor to click with you and put you at ease. There is an end to this. I got three wisdom teeth out and thought it was horrible! I am told that this surgery is easier but I wasn't as freaked out about getting my teeth out because it is common. I really think that is what it is. I have decided that the surgeon knows what he is doing and I don't need to know that much or if I like I can find out as much as I want to know. I really don't want to though! I want to put my energy into recovery. You will be fine. You'll come to terms with it if you decide to go ahead with it. I have and I am looking forward to getting it done and being post-op and recovering. I am not saying that I won't be scared just before it happens, I WILL, but I will get through it. I just think the body is amazing and will get you through it. dwilzen wrote: Yes I have been freaking out, I have made yet another appointment for a fourth opinion. It is next tuesday. Hopefully I will be even more informed aftter that. I am determined not to let this not ruin my life. I just want to be able to look forward to something and not be concernced. Thanks everyone for your words it is very comforting to hear your responses. I guess I am starting to feel like a big wimp about all of this. Vhurgo wrote:Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. Hope this helps you! For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 3, 2004 Report Share Posted November 3, 2004 You are not being a wimp. I think it is the fear of the unknown. Braces are very common and the reasons for getting them are known by all and accepted. Surgery is not as known - I had never heard about it before this and that is why I freaked out. We have no idea of what to expect at all. And unfortunately doctors only gloss over it when explaining what they are going to do to you. Maybe it will take the right doctor to click with you and put you at ease. There is an end to this. I got three wisdom teeth out and thought it was horrible! I am told that this surgery is easier but I wasn't as freaked out about getting my teeth out because it is common. I really think that is what it is. I have decided that the surgeon knows what he is doing and I don't need to know that much or if I like I can find out as much as I want to know. I really don't want to though! I want to put my energy into recovery. You will be fine. You'll come to terms with it if you decide to go ahead with it. I have and I am looking forward to getting it done and being post-op and recovering. I am not saying that I won't be scared just before it happens, I WILL, but I will get through it. I just think the body is amazing and will get you through it. dwilzen wrote: Yes I have been freaking out, I have made yet another appointment for a fourth opinion. It is next tuesday. Hopefully I will be even more informed aftter that. I am determined not to let this not ruin my life. I just want to be able to look forward to something and not be concernced. Thanks everyone for your words it is very comforting to hear your responses. I guess I am starting to feel like a big wimp about all of this. Vhurgo wrote:Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. Hope this helps you! For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has been one of the worst experiences of my life. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 4, 2004 Report Share Posted November 4, 2004 Hay--you're not a wimp, you're HUMAN!!!!! Be thankful you have these concens-I mean to say that you are protecting yourself and making well informed decisions...and that's exactly waht you should be doing...I get more concerned reading when someone just trots along lalala into surgery with out asking Q's and getting involved in their own health. heck remember, we were all scared sometime-if not terrified! And I think you're brave to share your honest emotions with others...you will help the quiet lerkers who aren't ok posting yet and those who are unsure but not saying so, to feel normal and amongst friends. Hang in there and share your thoughts after tues...meanwhile, take it easy on you huh!? After all YOU are the only YOU, you have! So be nice to you--these things will work themselves out JO Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. > > I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! > > It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. > > I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. > > The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. > > I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. > > Hope this helps you! > > > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 4, 2004 Report Share Posted November 4, 2004 Hay--you're not a wimp, you're HUMAN!!!!! Be thankful you have these concens-I mean to say that you are protecting yourself and making well informed decisions...and that's exactly waht you should be doing...I get more concerned reading when someone just trots along lalala into surgery with out asking Q's and getting involved in their own health. heck remember, we were all scared sometime-if not terrified! And I think you're brave to share your honest emotions with others...you will help the quiet lerkers who aren't ok posting yet and those who are unsure but not saying so, to feel normal and amongst friends. Hang in there and share your thoughts after tues...meanwhile, take it easy on you huh!? After all YOU are the only YOU, you have! So be nice to you--these things will work themselves out JO Hi Dwilzen, just thought I would write to say that I went through the same thing as you are going through. I know from your previous posts that you are completely freaking out. I started braces 6 months ago and will probably have lower advancement surgery in May or so next year. He will move it forward about 5mm and down. > > I was fine about it when I talked to my ortho and surgeon first but then hearing about other experiences and people's opinioins I started to panic. I panicked so much that I put my neck out and it was so stiff that I couldn't move it properly for two months. It may not have been a stress thing but it may have very well been. Since then I have gotten a new surgeon who explained certain things about the surgery that have managed to put me at ease. I also spoke to my chiro and physio and neither of them freaked out about it but said that was fine to do. My particular concern is not so much the possibility of numbness but of muscle problems in the face. My chiro said that the muscles regenerate themselves every four months or so and that they adjust to their new position just like your arms or legs do when people exercise and increase muscles. You use your mouth all the time so these muscles keep working. Anyway that eased my mind alot! > > It took me two months when I initially got my braces on to be able to bite into anything substantial so I am prepared to take it easy eating for as long as it takes after surgery. It is not forever. > > I also think that the examples of problems that can occur given by people on this site prepare you for the unexpected that surgeons sometimes don't tell you. That has also calmed me down. > > The final thing left is to decide for yourself whether you want to do this or not. You don't have to do it. I have decided that I am prepared to go for it and only regard posts that concern the type of surgery I am having. Lower is apparently easier than other types so I am taking comfort in that. > > I am also confident in my ortho and surgeon and will trust them. Although this is major surgery it is common and most likely you will be ok. Weigh the pros and cons and decide whether you really want this or you feel like you have to because an ortho and o/s have suggested it. Sometimes when you make a final decision you come to terms with it and start to relax. > > Hope this helps you! > > > > For the last 2 years I have been wearing braces and planning for > surgery. Not until the last 2 months or so has it really set in that > I was going to have SURGERY, and then it all started. I have become > so consumed with this whole thing I think I have actually become > obsessed with it.My concentration is not what it should be, I find it > has affected my work performance, My personal life and I feel sick > over it alot. I have gotten so concerned about it that I cancelled my > surgery and decided to go another route. This decision is stressing > me out also. I just want to get past this and don't seem to know > exactly what to do. Has anyone else gotten to this point? This has > been one of the worst experiences of my life. > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 4, 2004 Report Share Posted November 4, 2004 I'm not gonna try to push you in either direction. I will tell you what my os told me, after going over the possible risks and benefits: " I want you to think about all this, weigh it all, and decide what you want to do. If you decide the surgery is not for you, that's a legitimate option. Just tell your orthodontist that, and ask him to do the best he can. The major benefit [for you] will be long-term retention of the orthodontic changes. " For me, it turned out to be easy surgery, no major insurance or financial hassles, and no unpleasant after effects. But I do know some folks who regret having made the same choice (or similar ones) and the results they got. Good wishes to you in whatever choice you make. I do think that it's important that you believe that whatever you're doing is the right thing, rather than doing it because someone else embarrassed you into it, or because you had decided to do so earlier. Cammie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 4, 2004 Report Share Posted November 4, 2004 I'm not gonna try to push you in either direction. I will tell you what my os told me, after going over the possible risks and benefits: " I want you to think about all this, weigh it all, and decide what you want to do. If you decide the surgery is not for you, that's a legitimate option. Just tell your orthodontist that, and ask him to do the best he can. The major benefit [for you] will be long-term retention of the orthodontic changes. " For me, it turned out to be easy surgery, no major insurance or financial hassles, and no unpleasant after effects. But I do know some folks who regret having made the same choice (or similar ones) and the results they got. Good wishes to you in whatever choice you make. I do think that it's important that you believe that whatever you're doing is the right thing, rather than doing it because someone else embarrassed you into it, or because you had decided to do so earlier. Cammie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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