Recovery

Mid Jan I had surgery to remove lump for salivary gland along with lymph gland removal. Due to facial nerve complications I ended up having 6.5 hr operation and nerve damage to my mouth.

After 3 months my mouth is back to normal but I am still sore along the scar, my ear is very tender and check and under jaw line is swollen and tender and just aches. I am tired and really struggling to regain strength. I am mid 40,s and fairly fit and healthy. 
Due to the current situation my second follow up appointment has been cancelled and I feel guilty contacting my specialist regarding relatively minor moans so was hoping someone could offer some advice as to length of expected recovery. 

thank you 

  • Hello Philrecovery, 

    Poor you that sounded like a really long operation. I am glad your mouth is now back to normal but I am sorry to hear that you are still sore along the scar and that your ear is very tender and you are suffering from all these issues as well as feeling tired. I really don't think these are minor moans so don't feel guilty about contacting your specialist three months on from your operation and asking for help. Make sure you mention all these issues you have listed here and ask whether they have any suggestions or perhaps pain relief options that may be available to you. They will also be able to tell you more about the expected length of recovery. 

    Our nurses are also available on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm so don't hesitate to give them a ring if you want to talk things through with them. 

    I hope that you will also meet others here who have been in a similar situation before and that they will be along shortly to share their own experiences with you. 

    Wishing you a full and swift recovery.

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator