Hi all. I have not posted here before, but I did review a lot of posts before my surgery and appreciated some of the good news stories. I thought I would post mine too in case it helps anyone.
I'm 47 yr old female and had 3 cm tumor removed at the end of October in Vancouver B.C. by Dr. Akagami. I'm doing pretty well and most people tell me that they can't even tell I went through surgery (even tho I can tell).
16 weeks later: Obviously, I'm deaf in my right ear and have some tinnitus. Hate being deaf in one ear as it is a huge inconvenience and frustrating in social situations. Also I enjoy birding and now when I'm out I can't tell where the bird calls come from..
- but it is what it is and I will deal. I have some minor balance issues but far less than before surgery and am slowly improving - I can put my socks and pants on without leaning on the wall or dresser now. lol. I have one eye that does not tear as much as the other, but I seem to be fine without drops. I still have a bit of fullness in the one ear and it bothers me a bit to lie on that side for very long. I went back to work after 6 weeks, back to the gym after 8 weeks and back to doing Crossfit after 12 so generally I feel I'm doing pretty good considering. It could be worse.
I posted up a blog entry for my family and friends right after my surgery (so I did not have to e-mail them all separately .. I was too tired to do that.). So if anyone wants to read about my first week post-op experience, then feel free to read it here:
http://hospitalfun.tumblr.com/Cheers all and my best wishes go out to you all.
Tracie