Hi all,
Was diagnosed with Papillary thyroid carcinoma. Last week I had my thyroid removed alongside central neck dissection and right neck dissection. Over 40 lymph nodes were also removed. I stayed in hospital for 7 days as my calcium levels dropped dangerously so was under observation.
most nerves were preserved, I have right vocal chord palsy but still grateful I can talk. My right side of my face has not restored yet a week later I am swollen, my lips are not symmetrical when talking. Under my jaw I don't have a jawline just lots of swelling, chest wall pain under shoulder almost like a sensitivity to cold. I seem to have developed horners syndrome with a droopy eyelid on the operated side.
im grateful to have had this surgery etc and I am not moaning but I am really struggling with the change in my facial appearance. The lack of mobility and the pain I anticipated. I'm struggling with that too but I have no choice but to try my best to physically manage. Docs and nurses advising to hang in there saying the facial change is 'normal' which granted for them seeing it daily it is but for me it isn't. I'm almost losing hope. I'm 30 and newly married and although it isn't vanity I feel like my identity has been stripped away with a very different looking face. I know it's just been a week but I guess I'm searching for any reassurance through experience etc.
Does it really get better?
