Once someone has treatment to remove or shrink the AN, it does not mean their AN journey has come to an end.  In fact the road to recovery can be the hardest part.  There are many factors that play into someone's recovery and again, more expenses can incur the patient and their family. 

 

Post treatment issues (from either radiation or surgery) may include:

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• Cranial nerve deficits (i.e. facial weakness or numbness)

• Headaches, obstruction of fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid)

• Cerebrospinal fluid leakage or an infection

• Hearing loss leading to patients wanting to try methods to help restore their hearing

• Eye issues due to temporary or permanent facial paralysis, some can lead to cornea issues.  Eye must be kept moist with artificial tears or eye lubricants, barrier applied during sleep (i.e. sleep chamber), plugs might be needed in eyes to help produce tears.  A weight also might need to be inserted into one's eyelid to help it close.  Stitching the eye close may be recommended to preserve the cornea

• Dental issues due to facial paralysis 

• Physical Therapy to help restore balance issues

• Headache Specialist/Headache Holistic Therapy

• Facial Nerve Reconstruction- a second surgery may be recommended to connect the healthy portion of the facial nerve to another nerve in the face

  • There are a number of facial procedures aimed at revamping the face the can improve the facial function and the weakened side of the face​

• Recommended MRI screenings (1 year, 3 year, 5 year, and 10 year)

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This is just a small list, there are many other cost factors that come into play during a patient's post treatment care.