I am a couple of years out from my original mandibulectomy and I still use hydrocodone and methadone daily to manage the chronic pain. It isn't a high dose and I function very well on it. I recently went through a series of appointments and discussed the option of visiting reconstruction of my face and jaw area. I am hoping to rid myself of the daily pain medication. No one seems to be able to give me much hope that the massive surgery will completely eliminate the pain. Are there patients out there that have gone through reconstruction and found significant pain relief in the process? Or is it purely a cosmetic remedy? Thoughts?

Welcome to OCF! Its always nice having survivors join our ranks.

Our group is made up of fellow patients/survivors and caregivers without medical backgrounds or years of education and training.
I can tell you about my experiences which might help you. Ive had significant reconstruction done about a year after my mandibulectomy. This has not made any changes to the pain I have on a daily basis. My guess would be any reconstruction you have probably would not be able to address your pain. Your original surgery may have involved damaging nerves which may not be able to be corrected, especially since your surgery was a couple years ago. Being in pain is horrible, nobody should have to endure significant pain on a daily basis. I suggest making an appointment with your physician to ask about if surgery would help with your pain. You may also want to seek out a pain management specialist who may be able to help better manage your pain. Some members have found relief thru acupuncture, while others have said it hasnt helped so that might be worth a try as well.

Best wishes!



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