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Some Post-Op Insights

March 6, 2016 by lisagish Leave a Comment

It’s been over a week now since surgery.  My recovery has centered around a few things.  First, some dizziness or maybe more appropriately called “woozy-headedness” (I may have coined a new medical phrase!). I went home with a motion sickness patch that slowly releases medication over the course of 3 days.  After 3 days I removed the patch and could quickly tell that I was having some balance issues with mild dizziness.  I was able to get a prescription for more patches for the short-term – maybe another week or so.

I’ve also had what I would describe as  muscle spasms both inside and around my left ear where the surgery was performed and along the left side of my scalp where the implant was placed.  I found that using an ice pack helps.  I have also used some anti-inflammatory cream to the base of my skull and along my left temple.  The spasms are less frequent with each day that passes, thank goodness!

My incision is a bit tender, but has been healing nicely.  For those who know me, you won’t be surprised that I have a series of pictures of it to compare as it heals (available for viewing up on request!).

I took the white plastic protective cap/bandage off after 2 days.  I found that it actually hurt my head to wear it more than it helped protect the incision.  I used some 4×4 gauze and coban to keep the gauze in place.  I’ve had very minimal drainage, so I ditched the 4×4 gauze fairly quickly and just cleaned the incision and applied triple antibiotic ointment as directed.

My post-surgery instructions said to keep my head completely dry for 4 days after surgery.  The second day home I realized that the hair in the back of my head was literally clumped together.  I figured that most of it was betadine used during surgery and possibly a little blood as well.  I used a warm, wet wash cloth to soften the clumping so I could brush it.  How nasty!

My first shower after 4 days was amazing!!

Sleep has proved to be a challenge because it’s difficult to get comfortable laying down in almost any position.  I realize now that the decision to operate on one side at a time makes a lot of sense for this reason alone.  I’m not sure how long it will be until I can comfortably lay on my left side where the surgery was performed.  That leaves my back and right side to lay on.  I’ve spent more nights in a recliner than bed.  Sleeping mostly sitting up is more comfortable for now. Someone suggested using a pillow like you use on an airplane.  It still put too much pressure near the incision site but was helpful for cushion in the recliner.

Every day brings more steps forward in the right direction.  Stay tuned!

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Filed Under: Cochlear Implant, Deaf, Hearing Loss Tagged With: cochlear implant, deaf, Hearing aids, Hearing loss, Sudden hearing loss, Tinnitus

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About This Blog

My personal history of progressive hearing loss started in the early 2000's and eventually involved both ears. I have bilateral cochlear implants and I'm here to share my journey and to help others along theirs. Write to me at lisa@deafdefiance.com with questions or to share your story.

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