So, I had the translab to remove my >2cm AM on the right side and the outcome has exceeded my expectations. I am 6 months into my new life chapter. I was very excited because, after just 7 days the terrible headaches went away. My face is good and I am back to work (full time after 8 weeks). When I came home from the hospital I was excited to have Laurie's (wife) homemade lasagna, she makes the best in the world. I was dissappointed that it was tasteless; and the vintage red wine was lousy; but the constant noise in my ear was gone. It is interesting how these things happen. I think the noise dissappearing (for a short time) was due to the prednizone because after about a month it was back as loud and louder as ever; also after about a month my taste returned although it is still off, I have a numb spot on my tongue and my taste of salt is very diminished. Another interesting thing is that when I eat my right (AN side) eye waters and nose runs. Then there's the SSD,balance and clay head feeling but I won't go into more self-pity now.
My visit at Kaiser Redwood City and the results confirmed my confidence in their center of excellence for Neurosurgery, neurosurgeon Dr. Nutik and Head and Neck surgeon Dr. Korel and the nursing staff gave me the best outcome I could have expected. They are skillful and nice.
My main issue is the total deafness in the R ear (removal of the inner ear would do it!). Although my hearing was gone before the surgery (I could not distinguish words) I still had some input that helped me more that I realized. My good ear is not that great I, wear the Phonex Savio and the Bicros but I still have major problems understanding in other than quiet environments.
I am going to discuss the BAHA with my H&N MD tomorrow (it is covered by my plan). Any comments on the BAHA for people with a weak good ear?
JD