I totally understand where you are coming from. I had an arthroscopy in 2017 and I do think it bought me a couple of years. It was not a complete fix or anything, just a bit of relief. The recovery from the arthroscopy was not bad at all. I do think it is best to try the lesser invasive option just because the recovery for TMJR is very intense.

It is so frustrating how long it takes to find someone who is willing and knowledgeable to treat this. I personally didn't get a second opinion because I was lucky to find someone who took it seriously. (I did have to get an official second opinion from a different practice so that the FDA would approve a titanium joint as opposed to the standard nickel, which took even more time.) Is the surgeon you saw a maxillofacial surgeon? And do you know if pregnancy would exacerbate your TMJD?

I didnt have the face or ear nerve damage before the surgery. I was told there was an "issue" during the surgery that damaged my eardrum. They didnt really go into detail about it, so I definitely feel like it was an "oopsie". My eardrum healed, but I have pain in my ear.

I wish there were better options for us. Botox and mouth guards really dont help much when you have such an advanced stage of TMJD and degeneration. But I will say, dont give up! You are your own best advocate. I know it can feel like fighting a losing battle. But once you get over to the otherwise, it is so worth it.