about age

Message

#1 Post by **margan** » Sun Jan 10, 2010 9:08 pm

Hello, I'm 52, in great health and much need of surgery on my jaw. I got a referral from doc to see surgeon, but I read a bit about surgery not performed on people in my age group. My issues though like many of yours I am sure, are progressive. TMJ becomes more painful, shooting pains on sides of face, increasingly poor speech, problems eating and drinking.

I've read quite a bit in this forum in the past several days and appreciate the extraordinary level of knowledge and compassion. Any advice or reccomendations on this topic is appreciated.

#2 Post by **chicago29** » Sun Jan 10, 2010 9:13 pm

I think half of the battle with jaw surgery is mental. If you feel you can handle it, and you educate yourself in making that decision, I think you'll do fine.

I wouldn't hesitate if you find a board-certified Oral Surgeon that believes the surgery can be done successfully and you would benefit from it.[/u]

#3 Post by **bbsadmin** » Sun Jan 10, 2010 9:53 pm

Are you taking any drugs to help prevent osteoporsis (bisphosphonate drugs)? If so, you should tell your doctor immediately if you are considering jaw surgery.

#4 Post by **margan** » Mon Jan 11, 2010 1:12 am

No, I'm not taking any medications at all. Do they have adverse effects on a succesful surgery?
I am extremely motivated because my issues have gotten so much worse. I had investigated the surgery several years ago a bit allowed myself to be discouraged.

#5 Post by **starzz** » Mon Jan 11, 2010 2:09 am

Don't assume you're too old. Age shouldn't matter much, especially when you say you're in great health. Go to the surgical consult and see if the surgeon recommends surgery for your condition. (and if you don't like the first surgeon, see another...) I'm not having surgery, but from what I've read, healing time can increase with age. This alone should not be a counter-indication. One poster on this board I recall was in her late sixties or maybe early seventies when she had surgery.

That class of meds can prevent reformation / remodeling of bone.
http://www.archwired.com/Osteoporosis_and_Braces.htm

#6 Post by **OzzysMom** » Mon Jan 11, 2010 3:03 pm

I had my surgery just over a year ago at age 48 and am so very happy I finally did it.
I think that possibly it takes a bit longer for the nerves to come back if we are older...but...numbness usually lasts for months no matter what the age of the person is. It definitely shouldn't be a deterrent and I would do it again if I had to.
All the best in your decision!

#7 Post by **fromjersey** » Mon Jan 11, 2010 4:49 pm

I was 79 when I had my sliding genioplasty. All went well and have no more numbness. Sore throat from tube was worst part.
Helen

#8 Post by **trish222** » Wed Jan 13, 2010 4:16 pm

I am 44 and had the surgery 6 months ago. Happy I did it but still have lingering problems from surgery. I am going to have to have more screws taken out at almost 6 months. I do not believe that your mental attitude is half the battle though. I am an extremely positive, fit and all around healthy person. I have battled many post-op difficulties but would still do it all over again. I chose to see the silver lining of all of this in the end but it was by no means the most difficult thing I have ever been through and I have had and raised 3 children. As Ozzy's mom always says-give it a year and that is what I am exactly doin. Good luck with your decision

#9 Post by **almost50** » Thu Jan 14, 2010 4:18 pm

48 here and had BSSO 4 weeks ago.

The operation went smoothly. Recovery was easier than I thought after reading all of the posts on this board. I felt ready to go back to work in less than a week, although I did take the full 2 weeks off. No infections. No problems (so far). Just saw my surgeon today and he said things look good. Saw my orthodontist last week and he was impressed with my progress and I was able to open my mouth enough for him to change the wires etc.

I still have numbness and swelling, but that's to be expected.