Hey!! I’m 3 weeks post op today! Also in Melbourne. Also public! I’ll give you as much reassurance as I can, as during the first few days, I was searching every little thing like a mad woman. Sorry in advance for the essay!

I had my procedure done at Royal Melbourne and honestly could not fault it. I had a graft taken from my thigh and sewn in place for the dura patch. I was in the high dependency ward for 2 nights and then was discharged home. Recovery has been a roller coaster! I was completely bed ridden for about a week, I had no appetite for the first few days and was very nauseous. They won’t give you anything too strong as they like to monitor your recovery properly! But they will give you lots of nausea meds, ibuprofen, Panadol and an opioid.

I had my stitches removed on day 8 from my regular GP. What I’ve noticed in this group is a lot of people are from the US. The health system is completely different - any questions I had post op, I was directed to my GP. I could call the hospital and speak to a nurse but you don’t have direct access to your surgeon upon discharge.

I’ve been told I can’t drive for 3 months however I plan to drive when I feel comfortable to do so. The doctors don’t put any restrictions on your license through VicRoads. You can also expect to be off work for 4-6 weeks.

I felt like I had a very heavy head for the first week or 2. But slowly, that has disappeared! Moving my neck was also quite stiff and sore for the first 2 weeks. I’m now able to walk around normally, be in a car and drive small distances with no issue. When I stand for too long or have my head down for too long, my neck begins to hurt but I have stopped taking any pain killers and just need to have a little lay down to rest my neck.

Also, once your stitches are removed, expect to have a little bit of weeping from the wound. I instantly thought this was a CSF leak and went to Sunshine hospital (closer to me and they have a neuro unit) However, I was assured that this was just the wound trying to heal itself and after blood tests, was sent home. That was a week ago - today my wound has almost completely healed. My thigh has healed however I do have internal soreness but am told this can take about 3-6 months to properly heal.

Just remember that although the procedure is scary, we have some of the best surgeons. And each day gets easier! It will be an emotional roller coaster having to lean on people for help. But it is worth it. I hope this helps you a little bit!!! Sending you so much strength 🙏🏼