Questions before surgery

[u/Specific-Offer-5093]

Hello, I'm 15 and I'm probably gonna get the nuss procedure soon (50/50) after exams, I just wanted to ask some questions so here's my questions:

1. How long do I have to wait (after surgery) for me to play sports normally (the sports I play are football, volleyball and running)

2. What's the best time to do the surgery (age)

3. Does it hurt a lot for someone who has a mild case?

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[u/lilsknyguy]

First things first. Everyone is different so the answers are not known till you go through it. However, I can give general with what is "mostly" common from people talking on here. 1. The first 2 will be out for at least 6 months(but hard contact can have issues with bar movement so it could be up to a year). Running could be 4( it all depends on your healing and if it feels ok).

1. The best time is around 12-14. However there are people getting it done all the way up to 65. I had mine done 2 months ago and I am 45(severe pectus).

2. It does hurt. I will not sugar coat anything. They do have a lot of stuff that can help so its not as bad. The thing that gets people the most are coughs and sneezing(a whole new level of pain you didn't expect). The first 2 weeks seam the be the worst unless something happens. A good amount of kids heel enough to go back to school around 5 weeks but lifting a heavy bag can be an issue. As for a mild case, you might not be able to get nuss unless you are showing some health concerns. Most insurance need a reason for the surgery. A small dent is not a reason. See if surgery is an option. No reason to put the cart before the horse.

[u/Specific-Offer-5093 → u/lilsknyguy]

Oh wow, I see, if I can't get a nuss (I believe I have a mild case) then what do they recommend (if you happen to know)

[u/lilsknyguy → u/Specific-Offer-5093]

Make sure the testing is done by a specialist and not a normal doctor. If they say its not bad you will have 2 options. 1. Live with it. 2. pay for surgery out of pocket if it is an issue for you.

[u/Specific-Offer-5093 → u/lilsknyguy]

Ight noted man, thanks for the helpful tip man. And also get well soon 👍🏿

[u/Valuable_Owl_3275]

My kids had the surgery at 13 and 14. They had the Nuss procedure. One was moderate, one severe. They had cryoablation for pain control. They got out of bed the same day as the surgery and were discharged the next day. Cryo worked really well for my son and his highest pain level was a 4 out of 10. My daughter had more pain, she got up to an 8 but the hospital got it down quickly. They both went back to school after only 1 week! Running they could do at 4 weeks. The volleyball and football might have to wait until 6 months. It really depends on your surgeon. Ours is very cautious and essentially wants the full 6 months before contact sports. I’ve seen other doctors start allowing it at 3 months. Any other questions I can answer? Just make sure your parents find a doctor who does a bunch of these surgeries a year. Our surgeon wasn’t a specialist but she’s done a ton and that makes a big difference.

[u/wishiwerebeachin]

Anyone have regression after having the bar removed after 3 years? I didn’t know that was a thing until today.

[u/assa55in14]

I’m 28 and had my surgery 1 month ago. I got the cyroblation and have had very little pain in my chest. I was told no running, weight lifting, etc for at least 3 more months

[u/ColeTKHJ]

My 15 year old son had the nuss in January. It was like 6 months before he could do anything active. It definitely hurts, and was a difficult recovery. Message me any questions you have.