Having Stapedectomy in 8 days worried!! - Hearing Disorders Message Board

chiefsfan2008 · 09-24-2008, 11:47 AM

I'am scheduled to have a stapedectomy Friday 10-3-08. My concerns are that all of the trreads that I have read people have been awake for their surgery and my doctor will be putting me to sleep for the procedure has anyone else had it done that way???

Also I have taken 5 days off work do you think that is enough I'm worried about the vertigo. How bad is the vertigo will I be able to drive and fuction??

kitchener12 · 09-24-2008, 01:40 PM

Hi chiefsfan2008

I replied to your post on the ENT board and recommended you come on this board too.

Your dr may be putting you out for many reasons, he may be doing the surgery by laser, mine used a drill (!) and then yelled in the operated ear to ensure I could hear him before sticking all th packing in..

As far as I have read some people have NO vertigo and some have lots its a crap shoot I guess, from others post here I think everyone responds differently to the surgery...some have pain but no vertigo, some nothing and some pain, dizzies and numb stuff...I just wished I had been on this board before instead of after so I could have been better informed

My dr advised very little of anything for 7 days including panicing (!)

PLease dont; worry you may be fine afterwards

I did feel great on day 2 went to the mall, out for lunch and then paid for it the days after.

I think if you relax for the 5 days you have booked off you will be fine.

chiefsfan2008 · 09-24-2008, 03:36 PM

Thanks so much each time I get a response it eases my mind a little.

TXMommy27 · 09-24-2008, 09:02 PM

I had my first stap. in July, and my next one is scheduled for 10.14. Like kitchener12 stated, relax and don't do too much for the whole time you are out. I am a teacher, and had my first one in the summer since I didn't know what to expect. I was planning to wait and do the other ear next summer, but I am loving my bionic hearing so much I couldn't wait! I am only taking 4 days off work (plus the weekend), but I plan to take it easy when I go back.

I also was knocked out for the surgery, happily. My dr. used laser. I was very dizzy when I woke up, and felt a lot of pain. It was manageable with meds and was better after a few days.

Vertigo seems to be different for everyone. My dr. prescribed valium, but I didn't take any until I had an episode of vertigo - then I took it as prescribed! Never got sick, though. I drove for the first time about 6 days after surgery, and felt fine, but the street noise and noise in the grocery store gave me a huge headache. Give yourself time to adjust to noise, it can sometimes be painful. It just takes some time.

I am SO glad I did it, and can't wait to have the other one done. It is worth it to regain your hearing!

kitchener12 · 10-01-2008, 10:08 AM

Hi chiefsfan2008

Just wanted to wish you good luck on your surgery

Will check back and see how you're doing in a few days