HEARING
Yes, I have been spasm free since I regained consciousness (three days after surgery). I have some hearing loss and hypersensitive hearing in my right ear. Most times I cannot tell where sounds are coming from, this requires extra caution when driving especially when there is a lot of traffic or emergency vehicles involved. But, I would have this surgery again, faster than the speed of sound.
DIZZINESS
I remain a bit unbalanced. I still have some dizziness but I have learned to live within my abilities. When necessary I use any prop available to me – persons, trees, cars, walls or plopping down on the ground if needed. But, I have no regrets regarding the surgery; I would happily get back on this merry-go-round.
FATIGUE
I laugh as I write this because now I get to sleep a lot and no one minds. They all seem to understand. Is anyone still plagued with fatigue 12 months after his or her surgery? The first part of my body that is usually affected by this overwhelming need to lie down is my neck. Then my head gets heavy and the rest of me follow. Sometimes I actually feel like I am moving in slow motion. I would happily lie down, if my smile could be found.
FACIAL PALSY
98% gone. I only have a slight delay when raising my eyebrows. The left brow gets to its destination before the right. My smile is even. Like some of you I now look at everyone and smile great big goofy grins. I am so happy, I often get weak in the knees.
GOLD WEIGHT
Eleven months after my MVD I had the gold weight removed. My doctor thinks I should have a pendant made from it. My right eye is slightly smaller than the left but my doctor says that is also the case with most people.