Philtrum

B&W, because no one needs gruesome.

The split went all the way through, back to front, which was a bit alarming once I realized this, sitting alone (at this point) in the ER waiting room, my tongue feeling brave. Right up the philtrum about 1-1.5 cm, depending on swell-stretch. Kept my sense of proportion, and humor, at least externally, with the various folks who cared for me. Inside I felt a bit like a toddler crying because I'd fallen down, and wanted it not to have happened. I made jokes, I shrugged it off, and tried not to be squirrely. Acting brave, even when they can clearly see through it, counts among medical people, shows one is trying. And in my scrubs, OR shoe covers, ID tag hanging, they knew me for one of their own, increasing my sense of obligation to be a Good Patient. Most of us are, really, the difficulty is in taking care of each other more often than that we are Bad Patients. Became a Teaching Moment for the resident, as well, which was fine by me. I like learning this stuff.

Surgeon concerned that a tiny bit of the lip line will likely not scar down well, and that there are options after it heals to improve the cosmetic effect. Well, that is his focus, so I let him talk. I have no issue with plastics guys who do mostly reconstructive work. I'm sure once the swelling goes down, I'll be delighted enough. This is not an area of vanity for me, as long as it's functional.

Worried that D would be bothered unduly. Kept it covered until the resident got it cleaned up in her aborted attempt to close it. I couldn't be bothered after that, and D took it all in good part. After having seen the damage, he could look at the repair and genuinely say "Oh, that looks a LOT better." He's bothered by gross stuff, but he never gets faint, which is useful. He snagged a crossword section of the paper, and read out clues. Turned out to be ridiculously easy, laughably so, and he kept me distracted as we waited, which is exactly what helps me through distressing times.

Hard night, couldn't sleep well, achy and hamster wheeling thoughts, bad song in my head too. Chilled and feeling odd. Glad to have the day off, with a swolled up face and a seeping wound. I'm sure I'll go in tomorrow, though. I'll be wearing a mask, anyway.


While waiting, read my horoscope in the paper:
Head home early today. It would be best to take the day off. A partner or dear friend has been having a very difficult time.

Ok, that last part is off topic, but you gotta admit, the first part was dead on.