Have a look at these choppers and tell me what u think!

Message

#1 Post by **fatbaby9** » Thu Aug 26, 2010 6:13 am

So Ive been told I need braces (2 yrs worth) followed by jaw advancement surgery to get rid of my TMD which is causing me serious headaches. I'm 40 yrs old though! Is it worth it? I'm kind of concerned about the cost as I live in South Africa and they have crap medical coverage over here so I'll have to pay out of my own pocket. I'm British, if I went back home could I get it done on the NHS do you reckon?

I wasnt really bothered about the my physical appearance as I've lived with this mush for 40 yrs! But since the orthodontist told me that it would significally improve my facial features its made me want it more!

Please have a look and tell me, if you were me, would you bother? I can keep taking painkillers after all!
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_aLMxy1e1oqE/T ... %3D-763384

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aLMxy1e1oqE/T ... %3D-790906

#2 Post by **Rizzie** » Thu Aug 26, 2010 6:53 am

You look like the perfect candidate to me. I think you would have fabulous results!

#3 Post by **crazybeautiful** » Thu Aug 26, 2010 8:46 am

I think you would qualify for NHS treatment- though what is the procedure if you don't love in the UK anymore? I don't know

#4 Post by **isolde** » Thu Aug 26, 2010 9:36 am

If you don't live in the UK, I'm afraid you don't qualify for NHS treatment.

http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/1963.aspx?C ... goryID=159

Although of course I don't know what your individual situation is. That's just the general rule for people who 'permanently' live abroad.

#5 Post by **indecisive1** » Fri Aug 27, 2010 2:45 am

I asked myself the same question 2 years ago when I was 38 years old. Is it worth it at my age? Now I am 40 and just had upper and lower jaw surgery on the 23rd of June to correct an open bite. I kept telling myself that I've lived with this for all my life, why do it now? For me deciding to go ahead with the surgery has been the best thing I have ever done. Being able to bite into a slice of cheese or a lettuce leaf and actually be able to cut it with my incisors is the best feeling on this planet. Not to mention the cosmetic benefits. I had a gummy smile and a retrognathic jaw. My lower jaw advancement has improved my profile dramatically. I am more confident, happier and overall grateful that it all went well.

#6 Post by **vincejawsurgery** » Fri Aug 27, 2010 5:46 am

I am 28 years old and I recently had double jaw surgery to correct my underbite, flat cheeks, gummy smile, asymmetry...

I still have 4 weeks before I can start chewing again. Seeing my improvements every day makes me feel hopeful and happy that I have done this.

I find the recovery process very hard but I know it will all be worth it.

#7 Post by **fatbaby9** » Fri Aug 27, 2010 6:19 am

Yeah, I know I'd have to move back home, but we're thinking of doing that anyway because life is so expensive here in terms of schooling and health care! But then the kids have such a wonderful life here!
I dont have trouble chewing or swallowing although they both make a lot of noise! Its the pain thats the problem. I almost wish I hadnt been diagnosed with this and offered the solution! I was probably better off living in ignorance as I wouldnt have this dilemma! Like I said, I wasnt that bothered about my looks as I thought I was stuck with them and the codeine usually does the job - although I'm very wary of getting hooked on the stuff and the headaches are getting more frequent.
I wish there was more info on the South African medical insurance side. I know orthognathic surgery isnt covered as its considered cosmetic, and adults over 21 aren't covered for orthodontic treament, but I dont know if they would consider it if the drs were to motivate?
The expense will be huge and we're struggling to make ends meet over here as it is.