Anyone had TMJ replacement surgery?

First a little history - I have had TMJ issues for over 20 years. I had my first surgery in 1987 after splint therapy failed to help me. My jaw was repositioned as part of the surgery, so I then had to wear braces for five years to reposition my teeth. I was very pleased with the results of that surgery, but after 10 years or so I started having problems again. In 1999 I had a second surgery to remove scar tissue and also replace the destroyed disk in my left side with dermis? from my hip area. This surgery took much longer to recuperate from, but still was an improvement over pre surgery (I had gotten to the point I couldn't open my mouth wide enough to get a spoon in and was living on liquids). It started getting worse again last year, but instead of going back to Shands in Gainesville where I had my first two surgeries I was referred to a surgeon in Birmingham. In August 2009 this surgeon removed the scar tissue, but did not believe in replacing the disc with dermis (or whatever it was - can't remember right now). Also, he had me use a Thera-bite device to increase my opening. I was very compliant in doing my exercises, but the more I did them, the more problems I had - I also started having problems with pain and pressure in my ears which I have never had before. I went to an ENT and he said it was all connected to my TMJ. When I asked the surgeon, he did not address my pain and function issues, just said to keep doing the exercises. Four months after that surgery I was still in worse pain than before, so I went back to see the surgeon who had done my first two surgeries. He says that my jaws are now in such bad shape that only total joint replacement surgery will give me any relief. To be honest, after reading some of the horror stories on this site I am terrified of having this surgery, but I don't know what else to do - other than PRAY! My husband thinks I should have the surgery - he can't stand seeing me in so much pain on a daily basis. I'm hoping any of you out there that have had this surgery can give me a realistic idea of what to expect - and if you would recommend having it or not. I would greatly appreciate any input or suggestions. Thank you, Teresa
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