Mason got his bandages off today!!! At least for a while. We had to put them back on (and we’re still working on how to get the nasal stints back in–quite a project). 

 

  

Andrea and I drove downstate last night–a trip we’re getting somewhat tired of–in preparation for 8:30 and 11:30 appointments with his doctors today. The 8:30 appointment was with Dr. Stenger–our pediatric dentist. Normally, this is where we spend the bulk of our time, because Mason’s feeding plate has been the focus of his treatment until very recently. Over the last few weeks, though, Mason discovered that he could use his tongue to push the plate right out of his mouth–and unlike his previous method of grabbing and pulling, there’s nothing Mom or Dad can do to stop him.Dr. Stenger decided that if that’s what he’s going to do, we’re better off not using the plate anymore. We wouldn’t want him to pop it out and hurt himself or anything. Our appointment was very brief, and more social than medical–a welcome change! 

We then headed over to the Plastics office, where Mason’s surgeon (Dr. Rozelle) and nurse (Peggy) finally removed his bandages! That’s Peggy holding him below. Peggy is absolutely awesome, and has been our best resource through this process. We love her!!!

 

We were SO excited to see how his new lip looks without all of the bandages and crusties! And he looks great. Dr. Rozelle’s resident came in and said Mason’s results are among the best he’s seen. He’s definitely still healing, but it’s amazing that his lip is already bonding together so well. Unfortunately, Dr. Rozelle is very insistent that Mason needs his feeding plate still (it helps mold the gum growth, making the next surgery easier), so Dr. Stenger is ‘thinking’ about a way to modify it so Mason can’t push it out. We’ll be seeing him again next week. Mason’s next surgery is supposed to be between 8 and 10 months old, which would put it between January and March sometime.

That surgery will finish the ‘reconstruction’ phase of his treatment, closing his gum and palette. In the meantime, here are some more pictures of Mason ’san bandages’. He’s still a little raw, and definitely still sensitive, but what an amazing change! “I’ve got your nose!” 

 

“Did you see that?” 

 

Smiling Mason 

 

Mason and the big red ball (Thanks, Norrods!) 

 

and my new favorite: “I’m onto you, Dad!” 

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