For migraine patients who don’t respond well to holistic and traditional treatments, surgery may restore their quality of life. The goal of migraine surgery is to provide headache and migraine reduction as measured by frequency, duration and severity. An overwhelming majority of patients report a significant relief in symptoms after surgery, with some patients experiencing complete relief of symptoms.
Understanding Migraines
The migraine headache is a complex phenomenon that has several theories of origin and propagation. In the early 2000s, plastic surgeon Bahman Guyuron theorized that there were trigger points in the head and neck areas. He conducted research after seeing coincidental migraine improvement in patients undergoing routine cosmetic-type procedures.
His extensive research has proven that some migraine pain is caused by muscle fibers irritating trigeminal sensory nerve branches. There are multiple trigger points, each with its own unique symptom profile and treatment style. The most common are frontal headaches caused by compression of nerves in the forehead area. Temporal headaches and occipital headaches are related to nerve irritation in their respective areas. The offending site can be a mixture of muscle fibers, fascia, vessels and/or bone. Lastly, patients with rhinogenic or nasal headaches complain of pressure behind their eyes and are treated with traditional nasal surgery or functional rhinoplasty.
Migraine Evaluation and Treatment with Dr. Ellis
After evaluation and potential diagnostic use of Botox or nerve block anesthetics, Dr. Marco Ellis helps patients select the areas of necessary decompression. Some imaging may be required to improve accuracy, which can include CT scans or MRIs.
Depending on the site, migraine surgery is performed on an outpatient basis under sedation or general anesthesia. Each site deactivation takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Incisions are camouflaged in the scalp or upper eyelid. Dr. Ellis regularly interfaces with insurance providers and will advocate for your treatment coverage.
Benefits of Migraine Surgery
Migraine surgery offers a transformative solution for patients suffering from debilitating migraine headaches. By targeting specific trigger points, which can be muscles or nerves that contribute to migraine pain, the surgery aims to reduce or eliminate these triggers. Benefits include:
- Significant Reduction in Migraine Frequency: Many patients experience a drastic decrease in the number of migraine episodes.
- Decrease in Intensity: The severity of migraine headaches can diminish, making them more manageable.
- Improved Quality of Life: Patients often report better daily functioning and lower levels of stress and anxiety.
- Reduced Dependence on Medications: Surgery can decrease the need for pain-relief medications, reducing side effects associated with long-term medication use.
- Lasting Relief: Many patients enjoy prolonged relief, leading to a potentially permanent improvement in their condition.
Candidates for Migraine Surgery
Ideal candidates for migraine surgery are those who:
- Have Chronic Migraines: Typically, candidates experience frequent (usually more than 15 days per month) and severe migraines that have not responded to standard treatments.
- Failed Conventional Treatments: Candidates often have tried multiple medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes without significant relief.
- Undergone Comprehensive Evaluation: Candidates should have a detailed history and examination confirming that migraines are not caused by other underlying conditions.
- Positive Response to Preliminary Tests: Often, potential surgical candidates undergo nerve block injections to simulate the effects of surgery. A positive response to these tests is a strong indicator for successful surgical outcomes.
Recovery from Migraine Surgery
Recovery varies from patient to patient, but often includes:
- Manageable Discomfort: Patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
- Downtime: Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within a week, but full recovery may take a few weeks.
- Follow-up Visits: Post-operative follow-ups with Dr. Ellis are crucial to monitor the healing and effectiveness of the surgery. Continuous support from Dr. Ellis’s team ensures that patients are guided through their recovery process with resources and advice.
Migraine Surgery FAQs
How Does Migraine Surgery Differ from Other Migraine Treatments?
Migraine surgery is a specialized approach that aims to reduce or eliminate migraines by targeting specific trigger points in the head and neck. Unlike traditional treatments such as medications, lifestyle changes, or Botox injections, migraine surgery directly addresses the compressed nerves or muscles responsible for migraine pain. It is often recommended for individuals who have not found relief with other therapies.
What Are the Success Rates of Migraine Surgery?
Clinical studies indicate that migraine surgery has a high success rate, with many patients experiencing a significant reduction in both the frequency and intensity of their migraines. Research shows that approximately 80% of patients report improvement, with many experiencing complete resolution of migraines. Individual results vary based on factors such as the severity of the condition and the specific trigger sites involved.
Will Insurance Cover the Cost of Migraine Surgery?
Insurance coverage for migraine surgery varies based on your individual policies. Some insurers may cover the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary, while others consider it elective. Patients should check with their provider and Dr. Ellis’s team to explore financing options and verify potential
What Are the Most Common Trigger Points for Migraine Surgery?
Migraine surgery targets specific trigger sites where nerves are compressed. The most common areas include the forehead (supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves), temples (zygomaticotemporal nerve), back of the head (occipital nerves), and nasal region (for those with sinus-related migraines). Dr. Ellis customizes the procedure based on the patient’s symptoms and identified trigger points.
How Soon Will I Notice Results After Migraine Surgery?
Some patients notice an improvement almost immediately after surgery, while others experience gradual relief over several months as the healing process continues. The final results become more apparent once swelling subsides and nerve decompression takes full effect.
How Long Do the Results of Migraine Surgery Last?
Results from migraine surgery are often long-lasting, with many patients reporting permanent relief or substantial improvement. While some may still experience occasional headaches, their severity and frequency are typically reduced. Long-term success depends on individual healing responses and adherence to post-surgical recommendations.
Are There Risks or Side Effects Associated with Migraine Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, migraine surgery carries some risks, including swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, or mild discomfort at the incision sites. In rare cases, patients may not experience the desired level of relief. Dr. Ellis and his team discuss all potential risks and benefits during the consultation process.
What Should I Expect During a Migraine Surgery Consultation?
During a consultation, Dr. Ellis conducts a thorough assessment, including a review of migraine history, previous treatments, and trigger point evaluation. Diagnostic tests may be performed to determine nerve involvement. Based on the findings, he will recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Why Do Patients in Chicago Choose Dr. Ellis for Migraine Surgery?
Dr. Marco Ellis is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive expertise in nerve decompression surgery, making him a leading choice for migraine surgery in Chicago. Dr. Ellis is a faculty member at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and serves as a reconstructive specialist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. His commitment to patient-centered care and innovative surgical approaches has earned him recognition as a top surgeon in the field.
Call to Action
As a renowned reconstructive facial surgeon, Dr. Ellis is Chicago’s top choice for migraine surgeons. Take the first step towards a life free from the debilitating effects of migraines by contacting his office today at (312) 695-6022.