<Before surgery>
I chose to have surgery due to ongoing dental
problems onset during childhood. These
dental issues are a result of visiting a dentist who recommended braces. These braces remained on my teeth for nearly
5 years. When the braces were finally removed
it was noted that my bite was not as it should be. Having this abnormal bite has caused
difficulties in simple daily tasks such as eating. As years passed during my adulthood I also
realized my facial asymmetry became more noticeable. So I am also looking for better symmetry,
which will give me a well-balanced face.
I chose to have double-jaw surgery after
realizing that is the only way to correct my bite. I searched for doctors in the United States
and found that South Korea actually has some of the best in the world. I reviewed several places before landing on
EU’s website. The doctors at EU produce
the results I want so the search went no further. I am also interested in the genioplasty to
bring balance to my face.
I want the best results to come from this
surgery. I am anticipating my bite will
improve and eating will become much easier.
I will not have to worry about bone deterioration, as I get older. I want to also reduce the amount of gum that
shows when I smile. When looking in the
mirror I want to see the smile I feel from within. Overall I am looking for the health benefits
as well as the aesthetics.
<Adjusting wafer before surgery>
<Take a picture with Dr. Kim before surgery>
<Post OP 1 Day>
the whole experience here at EU is about
gaining the confidence between patient and Surgeon and their staff. The operating
room is the same private single room for recovery. There is a TV and electric outlets for my iPad and phone. After surgery last night I was in so
much pain. I asked myself, why did I
have the surgery... I told the nurse about my pain. She spoke with Dr. Kim and then she gave me something for the pain. It lowered the pain to a tolerable
level. I was able to sleep after the 6 hours, but was uncomfortable, which I
was expecting. This morning I woke up and had the catheter and other stuff
removed. The staff here at EU are so attentive. I feel they really care about
the work they do and about me as a person. Today Dr. Kim stopped in to check on
me several times. After getting up and walking around a bit I felt fine. I
looked in the mirror and am happy with day one results :) even though I am
swollen I am already loving my new face shape!!!
<Post OP 7 Days>
I had my one week follow up today. Dr. Kim
removed the bands that were keeping me from opening my mouth too much. At this
point I should be able to open my mouth no more than 20mm, or roughly 3/4 of an
inch. I am nervous about opening my mouth because I do not want to cause any
damage. My pain today is low and I feel I am healing pretty well. When we
arrived at EU the staff greeted us as they always do. They have always made us
feel very welcome and actually ask how my sons are doing. I am not going
through this alone, my husband and I brought our sons who are 7 and 4 years
old. The waiting area is nice with plenty of seating. There is a water
dispenser and even a coffee machine which dispenses a variety of coffees. The
area is well maintained and always very clean.
<Post OP 14 Days>
I woke up so excited as today is the two week mark. I went to my follow-up appointment today and Dr. Kim made some adjustments on my nose. It was a little crooked but looks much better now. He used a pain medication while making the adjustment, and when that wore off there was really not much pain or discomfort. I started some mouth exercises today and will progressively begin to open my mouth more and more. I found an Orthodontist near my home and made an appointment for when I return. I was happy when I had my original braces put on, so I am a little nervous getting them back on. Though I know it will be in an important part of getting my bite where it should be.
<Post OP 21 Days>
I find happiness in being able to eat less liquid purée foods ;) The other day I had a cheese burger purée... mmmm... lol... aside from that I believe I am regaining some of the feeling in my upper lip along with some of the surrounding area. After three weeks my family and I have returned to our normal daily conversations. I can speak well and hear better now. This morning I had scrambled eggs cut up small. It was great!!! Hahah
<Post OP 30 Days>
. Today we went to see Doctor Kim for my
final appointment. He removed my screws today which were used for the bands. I
have my Orthodontist appointment next week and EU will send them photos and
X-rays. The two offices will work together for the next stage of my treatment.
This treatment will help ensure I keep my bite and my new smile :) We are all
excited to return home. We have two wonderful sons who have a great deal of
patience having spent 5 weeks in a hotel... lol... We are planning to treat
them with a trip to Hershey amusement park soon after we return.
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