Medics initially believed the injury to Andy Parton, 31, was superficial and merely stitched his eyelid.
When his eye failed to open properly for three months, they blamed muscle damage. Then an MRI scan revealed the incredible truth.
He could have died at any point by either being poisoned or having a seizure. But in a ten-hour operation, a team of some of Britain's best surgeons "navigated" his brain.
The experts of Leeds University Teaching Hospitals, performed a cranial incision.
This involved removing part of the skull, following the entry route of the pool cue, and retrieving the tip.
They then rebuilt the top of his nose and brow.
The team are used to navigating the complex areas of the brain to remove tumours, not foreign bodies.
Last year The Sun revealed the unusual case of Chantel Faill, 31, from Broughton, Lincs, who had a cue tip stuck up her nose for 12 years.
A spokesman for Leeds Teaching Hospitals said: "This was a very unusual injury with potentially serious consequences.
"A long, complex operation was necessary, which happily was successful.
"We are just pleased that Mr Parton was not snookered by his injury and has gone on to make a full recovery."
TV and internet production worker Andy, of Knaresborough, North Yorks, thanked the team at Leeds General Infirmary — saying: "I know I'm lucky to be alive.
"I never thought pool was such a dangerous game."
FOR more on the work of the LGI team and to make a donation to their charity visit:
www.btrs.org.uk.
