Upcoming Surgery

pstuck · Post by **pstuck** » Thu Mar 27, 2008 1:21 pm

Ok I thought I posted this once but can not find it so if it shows up twice I apoligize. My problem is that I am facing surgery for a parotid tumor. This is going to involve cutting on my face around my ear etc. Iam concerned about how I will be able to wear my mask with incision on my face. I use a optilife now. I know surgery is an especially dangerous time for people on cpap but I don't see anyway I will be able to wear the headgear.

Any suggestions or comments would be welcome.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Mar 27, 2008 1:29 pm

NON EXPERT OPINION HERE....

You already have a mask with minimal facial contact. I would think you could wear it over your ear dressing.

However, you might not, if the slightest pressure is painful. I just don't know. I think you're in the best possible position right now, with that mask. It might be you have to give it up for a few nights.

GOOD LUCK!!!!!
Babs

ozij · Post by **ozij** » Thu Mar 27, 2008 1:33 pm

First of all, make sure all medical staff know of your airway tendency to collapse when you're not fully awake (and use these terms or something similar - its a breathing problem, not a sleep problem).

Second: Try the Breeze - it has the least hardware near you ears:

I hope you have time to get used to it - if you haven't used nasal pillow your nose may be sore in the beginning.

Good luck in your surgery - and keep us posted.

O.

Julie · Post by **Julie** » Thu Mar 27, 2008 1:59 pm

Surgery these days may surprise you - the area of the incision is often absolutely numb afterward and stays that way for a long time, to the extent that you might rather the rest of you were numb as well when it comes to wearing anything, having pressure, etc. Ask your MD if that is likely to be the case with you.

pstuck · Post by **pstuck** » Thu Mar 27, 2008 2:04 pm

Good idea I think I will try the breeze better get it ordered asap. Thanks for the suggestion.

rested gal · Post by **rested gal** » Thu Mar 27, 2008 2:51 pm

I second ozij's suggestion -- the Breeze. Be sure to order nasal pillows that you think will be "too large" for you. They'll seal better and won't have to be crammed into your nose to make a seal.

For women, I'd suggest the Large pillows. If ordering two sizes, get Large and Medium.

For men, I'd suggest the Large and Extra Large pillows.

I used the Breeze very happily for almost two years. Before it had the up/down adjustment in front for the strap that is shown going around the forehead in the picture, I used a homemade strap around it, lower than shown in the picture.

Here are some links to topics about the Breeze, pstuck:

LINKS to Breeze nasal pillows / nasal mask topics
viewtopic.php?p=31202

If you have problems (especially if you like to sleep on your back), check out the creative Lab Rat fixes for the Breeze:

LINKS to Lab Rat Trophy awards
viewtopic.php?t=15104

Good luck with your surgery. Hope you have a nice smooth recovery!