Anyone had a total radical neck dissection?

Yes, I just went through this in November. Actually, had to go through it 3 times in less than 2 weeks. Had radical neck dissection surgery to remove a cancer at base of tonsil cavity along with inflamed lymph nodes. Was a success, however a lymphatic leak developed after surgery and they had to re-open my neck a second time to stop the leak. Subsequently, they determined through a biopsy of the thyroid that I also had thyroid cancer (unrelated to the primary). They re-opened my neck a 3rd time and removed thyroid along with some additional lymph nodes.

Like any surgery, not fun, but it was necessary. I got through it and my neck incisions are healing nicely. Initially, the neck scars are a little disconcerting but they will fade over time. I did have some neck muscle weakness that I had to rehab with physical therapy for a few weeks afterwards but otherwise no lingering side effects. FYI, I am 60 and was otherwise in good physical shape prior to the surgeries.

How are you today after 2 year after surgery?

Doing very well. Very few lingering side effects from the neck dissection although the area still feels tight. I do active self-massage on the neck area with oil to help break up the scar tissue. Also, have been consistent in neck exercises to improve range of motion. Back to doing everything that I did before the surgery (golf, yoga, weight training, hockey).

I also suffered from some lymphedema due to the lymph nodes being removed but again, lymphatic massage helped ease the symptoms and I no longer need to do the massage routine.

Thank you. My son age 29 has a 5 inch benign tumor on his brachial plexus. It's growing toward his armpit (lymph nodes). It is a schwannoma. His surgery is July 24. I will encourage him to do neck exercises (when the Dr says it's safe). It's so overwhelming !!! I appreciate your insight. Prayer for you and your family 🌟