by BrokenBuckeye » 09 Dec 2011, 11:12
Hey Chris,
Like Dawn, I had a tag that was misdiagnosed as a hemmy. When that little (naughty naughty) got inflamed (constantly toward the end), it caused excruciating pain.
As you know, doctors have to disclose any and all surgical risks. As we know, nothing in life comes without risk. Statistically speaking, incontinence is extremely rare and figures can vary depending on the source. When I heard "incontinence," I had visions of having to wear diapers for the rest of my (I finally decided, screw it, diapers vs pain; diapers win!); when in fact, reality is, the few who do end up post LIS incontinent, usually experience mild flatulent incontinence, or minor leakage. Depending on your modesty level, a small price to pay for relief. Turns out, like most, I have had neither.
As for having it done that close to the holiday (if you don't celebrate, please forgive my assumption), I could have mine done 2 days before Thanksgiving, moved it up a week because the holiday and ended up having a miserable day. For me, the post-op pain has been much easier than AF.
When I first consulted with my CRS, he told me that my fissure was chronic and that it was unlikely to heal. However, he did offer me conservative options (nitro, valium etc.) to try before LIS. I appreciated him allowing me to make the call on my treatment. A week after my CRS appointment, and having tried every available conservative option, I called the CRS to schedule LIS. 11 days out, no regrets.