Finally, I was able to actually see a oral surgeon who specializes in this surgery and has years of experience. I found him through research and not through a common referral. I told him my unique story and how this journey is only just getting started.
Unlike orthodontists, he actually made me feel that my problem was NOT just cosmetic and I have a functional problem that needs to be fixed. There's an entire process before even discussing treatment options and I'm having my teeth cleaned then seeing an ortho next week. After that, we will determine a treatment plan and schedule my wisdom teeth removal...UGH. I'm hoping to have this done by the holidays since that is perfect timing for work.
I know the money and wearing braces was a major reason why I refused to go further. I'm now single, career is somewhat stable, and I have the ability to move back home before the surgery. Now couldn't be a better time to focus on myself and fixing my jaws and health!
The journey is just starting and even though I'm scared as hell, I'm excited to begin and get the next 2 years over with!
Nice!
ReplyDeleteCould I get a contact email please, I have almost exact same issue as u! Thanks
ReplyDeleteSure, kristenmack13@gmail.com
DeleteHi Kristen, just came across your blog. I also have the very same problem!!! It's so refreshing to hear your stories and be privy on this personal journey of yours, wanted to say thank you :-) I'm sure you are ready for the treatment of your life! I've just started my own journey finally looking into jaw surgery... I've also been down the root of botox, braces with TADs etc and nothing has worked...time to join the bandwagon of jaw surgery, I'm looking into meeting Dr Paul Coceancig next year for the IMDO procedure which is less invasive than Jaw surgery, look into it if you have time :) Kritika
ReplyDeleteHi Kritika!
DeleteI love to hear about others journeys as well with similar cases too! I've tried everything and wanted to share my story, read about others experience too. It can only help! I've been avoiding jaw surgery but every year that passes is just another procrastination of my real issues!! Lol. I will look into IMDO thank you for the recommendation and good luck with your journey.
I thought I was in this all alone. I've suffered the problem as you, and our story is exactly the same. I am a 30yr old female, and my biggest wish in life has always been to be able to close my month, naturally and more important comfortably. When I was 21yrs old I traveled 2hours away to see one of the most prestigious facial surgeons, Dr Nicholas Posnick. I felt like my dream was actually within reach. He gave me hope feel one day comfortable in my own skin. I was told I needed to see a speak pathologist and a dentist. I was all in, we had a plan, but the funds were unobtainable. Because it's considered elective. Insurance wasn't able to cover the cost of any of the procedure. Over 30,000$ was estimated. To this day, it's such a disappointment. My family and friends look at me crazy when I talk about how much I desire this surgery. They say I'm beautiful just the way I am, and why would you want to be different, be you, be unique. And it's scary wanting to have an 8hr surgery that they saw your jaw out. But they don't understand, no one has, until I found you. It's almost a relief to know that someone else out there shares my same feelings. Today almost 10yrs lady, I looked in the morning and told myself not to give up on my dream. I don't have to money still, but I feel determined to find a way. I wish you all the luck!! I hope we can travel this journey together with each other support. Thank you for making this blog. Just reading your story made me want to just be your friend. :-) thanks
ReplyDeleteMary
Baltimore, Md
Hi Mary!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words. I too do not necessarily have the money for the surgery and have not even attempted to contact insurance yet for approval. I've since decided to go for it anyway and but braces on. My appearance is even worse with the braces because it makes it even harder to close my mouth. Thinking about my appearance, the surgery itself, and the money has led me to not sleep at night. I started to see how beautiful my mouth/face/smile was before my braces. It will be a long long journey to wait to see what the after will look like. Everyone says worth it but we are all different and have different stories. I hope to search for alternative doctors. I've researched myofunctional therapy and the appliances but not sure how severe my case is to treat with this alternative. I wish you the best of luck on your journey!!
Here is the blog I've been following for years...it's helped keep hope that maybe non-traditional ways could work one day for everyone.
http://claimingpower.com/mandibular-expansion-adults/#more-7592