You have a big decision to make and I applaud you for doing the research and getting second opinions in order to make an informed decision.

But sometimes the research is better served if you use it to ask the right questions of the right people. Ask the folks at Mayo why they want to do it in two stages, what it will mean whilst you have the hole in your palate, what they plan to do to help you through this period, how long you will be "holey" and what are advantages the of doing it this way(other than them getting to play with their new toy)? Make sure you ask about differences long term with functionality as this is a biggie that often takes a back seat to the immediate issues and fears.

I have no idea, but potentially you may have "long term gain for short term pain". Or is it the other way around ....

Good luck with whatever you decide

Karen