Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is craniotomy a major surgery?
A craniotomy is a brain surgery that involves the temporary removal of bone from the skull to make repairs in the brain. It is highly intensive and comes with certain risks.
2. Does the skull heal after craniotomy?
Yes, just like any other broken bone over time, the skull also heals itself.
3. Does hair grow after craniotomy?
Yes, after the operation, your hair will grow back where it had been shaved. Once the wound on your head is healed and any sutures or clips have been taken out, you can even wash your hair and use hair products as usual.
4. What are the side effects of craniotomy?
The side effects of craniotomy include head scarring, damage to sinuses, facial nerve damage, infection of the bone or flap and brain swelling.
5. Can I exercise after craniotomy?
After surgery, refrain from strenuous activities for 4 weeks. You can use walking as a workout. You may start to gradually resume your regular exercise 4 weeks after surgery. But do take advice from your doctor.
6. How long is the procedure of craniotomy?
A regular craniotomy could take upto 3-5 hours.
7. What is awake craniotomy?
In cases where the surgeon needs to operate close to the regions of your brain that regulate vision, movement or speech, you might need to be awake during surgery. It is done in Sleep -> Awake-> Sleep Cycles .
8. How long does it take to recover after a brain surgery?
To fully heal from a brain surgery, it usually takes between 4 to 8 weeks. Your initial head incisions could hurt for up to a week following the procedure.
9. What are the precautions to be taken after craniotomy?
You have to wait four weeks following surgery before getting your hair coloured or trimmed. For four weeks after the surgery, avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling anything heavier than 4 to 5 kgs. If you feel unsteady, have someone help you to walk.
10. How long do headaches last after craniotomy?
Headaches may develop within seven days of the craniotomy and persist for at least three whole months.
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