I am hoping to have the BLVR procedure in October , it is relatively new in Australia & one way valves are inserted to block off damaged areas of the lung , this method is not as intrusive as other methods so - fingers crossed !

I've not had the surgery, but I know a number of people who have had it. If you qualify, and the standards are pretty high and strict, you stand a very good chance that your breathing will improve, in some cases by at much as 50% improvement. The surgery is major and like any other major surgery, things can and sometimes do go wrong. It's not something to be lightly considered. There are risks involved, but there's also that good chance of major improvement in your breathing.

I am hoping for BLVR next month (October) ~ there is no intrusive surgery ( cutting or stitches etc ) In our condition that is a plus,
Damaged areas of the lung are blocked off with one way valves rather than be surgically removed , still a bit apprehensive of course as anaesthetic is involved - BUT - it's a great opportunity to improve quality of life , - Roll On October !

I have a friend who had that done. She said recovery was very hard but she is off oxygen now. She still becomes sob when exercising and oxygen levels drop. She said she is glad she had it done but it really is a very tough surgery.

I had the valves placed. Here it is still a clinical trial not approved by the FDA. Mine went well and the difference is like night and day. It has been almost six months now and I feel like someone turned the clock back years. Good luck to all that are having the valves placed. The worse I got after was a sore throat it was a very minor recovery.