@lindainca I experienced the same dry cough post esophageal surgery. The cough lasted for several weeks and eventually improved but did not stop completely. Scans showed I had fluid collection around both lungs but I was told it would probably dissipate and no treatment was recommended. It wasn’t until one and a half years later (post op) that I started to experience severe shortness of breath that I was referred to a cardiologist. Once my cardiologist repeated the scans, he recommended the procedure to drain the fluid around my lungs. It has made a significant difference in my energy and mobility. I only wish I had that I had found out sooner that my cough and shortness of breath were due to my surgery. Don’t hesitate to pursue the scans and discuss with your doctor as fluid buildup is apparently not uncommon after surgery.