Tuesday, August 13, 2013

15 months post op pics

I took these photos in June at my 15 month mark.  I didn't get around to posting them until now. It's been a fun summer with vacations and pool time but sadly, it's coming to an end.

My surgeon is extremely pleased with my outcome.  I am fairly happy about things also.  I was super happy until I started my veneer work in July.  Don't get me wrong, it's taken me a while to come to terms with the fact that jaw surgery did not and could not make me drop-dead gorgeous.  There are still things about my face I thought would be better, but I was slightly delusional pre surgery.  I mean, they sawed my face apart, had it all out on the table, why couldn't they put me back together to look like Cindy Crawford?!  I know, I know, they are surgeons not miracle workers. (Well, I know that now.)  But after a few months of coming to terms with my new, not Cindy Crawford face, I'm OKAY with it.  I know it looks a bit better and it works a hell of a lot better, so that's good enough for me.

Veneers added a new level of drama. Now I'm bummed, in pain, and worried about how to handle it.  But I'll try to stay positive and talk with my cosmetic dentist tomorrow about it.  I'll update when I have some answers. 

For now, current pictures...

                                         


Not my typical profile pics, but the half-side angle was one I avoided like the plague for years.  Now, I don't hate it so bad...




   Teeth close up (before veneers) and clear retainers (luckily NOT like the ones I had as a kid)...






My mouth is looking great these days, but what the hell is up with the bags under my eyes?! 
Damn you old age!
 

And just for kicks, before surgery and 5 months post op (that I thought I would look like for-evah) to compare to now...





8 comments:

  1. What teeth did you get veneered?

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    1. Bottom 6 in front. They were naturally too small and spaced apart. OS said it had to be done for long term retention, otherwise they would have shifted and thrown off my bite again. I'll post a pic soon.

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  2. U look great, Nichole!!! I'm so happy for you!

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    1. Thanks Cece! So happy to be at this point. Hope you are doing well.

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  3. Nichole you look dashing and love the bright smile !! :D
    Your post really touches a nerve (do you mind if I put a link in an updated blog post about jaw surgery reality to your post?). Its very truthful subject- one a lot of people dont want to openly discuss.

    I think many of us go in with a dangerous expectation that we'll end up looking a very specific way (modelesque even) and when it doesnt match we get heartbroken... I feel that the majority of women are ingrained from a young age that the beauty on the outside is almost everything- and we battle the genetic cards among other things to 'achieve' this ideal... But with time, experience and much wisdom we learn what beauty really is :) ! Im so happy that after ALLLLL the jaw madness you have a heart-warming healthy smile, share it with all you meet :)

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    1. Thank you so much for the kind words. Feel free to put a link to my blog or this post. I totally agree with you, vanity is a hard demon to conquer but once you do it is so liberating.
      I hope you are feeling well.

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  4. Hi I just found your blog. Awesome smile! :) I am anticipating getting jaw surgery in early February with Dr. Ochs and just wanted to hear your thoughts on him. I loved him the first time I met him but have been working with my orthodontist since then. Who did you have as your orthodontist? Thanks, in advance!

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    1. Hi Larissa. I'm terribly sorry I haven't responded until now. Can you believe I haven't checked my blog in over 2 months? That's just crazy to me. But, it means I haven't even thought about my jaw in months and that is fantastic!
      I love, love, LOVE Dr. Ochs! He is one of the best in this area and I'm so glad I chose him. Not only does he do great work, he is pleasant, kind, patient, informative and very sweet. I've worked with physicians for 13 years and it's rare to find one with all these qualities! You will be very happy you chose him when it's all said and done. And it's typical to see him once, then not until surgery mock ups and what not. But Dr. Ochs still talks with the orthodontist about you and what needs to happen.
      My orthodontist is Dr. Earl King in Wexford. I am very pleased with my experience with them. I can sing many praises on him, his partners and their staff. They have been amazing to work with!
      I have to update my blog with my final records photos soon. I just have to scan them in. But you can ask me any questions you may have. I'm sure your mind is spinning with surgery 2 months out. I promise to check back more :)
      Best of luck!!

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