Hi everyone!
(Had a shirt with “Just got my braces removed” made, thanks to mom for the purchase!!)
Here are some pictures of me with my new-and-improved smile. I was waiting to get my haircut and finally did it so…here they are!
I finally found a food that I hadnt been able to eat. Tootsie rolls. breaking off the pieces, I feel I can thoroughly enjoy them now!
The reason I put on this photo is because you can see the “new” shape of my jaw. And look at that slight cheekbone action happening 🙂
Ashleysjawsurgery 
Look at you! Your happiness is just radiating!!!! 🙂
My insurance stuff hasn’t gone through yet, so it’s not official, but Gunson’s office has a tentative hold on Feb 13th for me…Feb 6th might open up, too…fingers crossed it all works out!
Thank you so much for everything you’ve shared on your blog! It’s been a huge inspiration – especially since we have the same doctor. I know I won’t be nearly as nervous knowing you had a positive experience, and I can’t wait until I can share mine, too!
Hey Ashley! I just found youre blog now its awesome. I got upper jaw surgery in dec 2011 and i am really unhappy with the results. I had an open bite and my profile was affected because of it. My profile hasn’t changed and my breathing is only slightly better. I am looking into options for fixing the problems i have now. It looks like you had your surgery with dr gunson. I have seen his name on a few blogs now/ I’m wondering if you are in california or if you traveled there for the surgery and consultations. How did you make that work and how long did you stay in santa barbara after the surgery?
Hey Meaghan!
I travelled across the country to see Dr. Gunson. Big move, I know…but let’s be honest, when you’re dealing with your body you WANT and NEED to really consider and take things seriously. I am so sorry that you have been through so much with your jaw, it sounds so awful. Hopefully my story can help you and remind you that anything can be done or fixed. I am sure that Gunson would be a perfect choice to help you.
And to answer your question. After surgery I stayed in Santa Barbara for 12 days ( I think?) and I do wish I had stayed just a few days extra simply due to the excruciating ear pain I went through on my flight home. I have never heard of anybody else having the ear pain I did but it was terrible. Thank goodness Gunson AND even Dr Arnett were keeping contact with me the entire time on my second trip over there. They were really considerate and even called me personally to see how I was doing.
I can’t say I’ve had many doctors care about their patients as much as these do.
Hugs!
I am so glad that your “nervousness” is diminished. Nothing makes me happier 🙂 You are going to be just fine. I can tell you strong you are and you’re so positive about your recovery, it’s really reminding me of myself a year ago.
Thanks for putting a smile on my face!
Ashley is the pic of you in Your profile pic by the pool before or after the surgery?
It’s before my surgery Krista! I always liked that picture because the angle it was taken at was just perfect.
What were your final movements surgically? Did you have cheek and orbital grafts?