WOW! Super scary reaction to the contrast/meds! I can imagine it was a nightmare for you.
An elongated styloid can occasionally break during a laugh, cough, sneeze, & now I’ll add, a swallow. We’ve had a few other members who’ve had a similar experience to you i.e. hearing the pop or snap then noting a reduction in pressure/pain. It does make sense that you’d be noticing your other side more now that the right side has had an adjustment. I’m sorry the left is flaring up though. Would have been nice for you to have a break!
I don’t know if you’ve seen the conversation between @PamelaInNYC & @KimberlyNYC - NYC surgeons? - #6 by KimberlyNYC, but if you aren’t settled w/ a surgeon yet, there may be one closer to you that you could check out. I’m unsure if the doctor they’re considering is familiar w/ VES though.