Hi, Mauri:
As the cliché goes, "we're all different". That remains a constant and explains the variable recovery rates you might read about here and elsewhere. Unfortunately, my hearing was irreparably lost prior to surgery. I underwent retrosigmoid approach surgery plus radiation (see my signature, below) and experienced a very good outcome and a rapid recovery. Your experience may be somewhat different, of course, but I trust It'll be similar.
I was in excellent health 'going in'. My surgeon was top-notch, I had solid family support and many prayers said on my behalf. I believe all of these factors aided in my recovery. My pre-op symptoms (loss of equalibrium, loss of taste, fatigue) subsided almost immediately following surgery. After almost 5 days in the hospital and a few days at home spent shaking off the effects of the anesthesia and regaining my strength, I was well on the way to recovery. I walked as much as I could and I was given permission to drive within two weeks of the surgery. I felt pretty good. As a retiree, returning to work wasn't an option but returning to my former, active life, was. I managed to do that within about 6 to 8 weeks, although, to be starkly candid, I didn't really feel '100%' until about a year following the surgery.
I trust this account, although personal, is helpful to you, Mauri, as that is my intent. Remember, AN surgical outcomes vary, sometimes wildly, but with your relatively small AN tumor and an experienced surgeon, along with a positive attitude and much prayer, you will likely do quite well. I pray that you will.
Jim
