What to expect post radical neck dissection, tonsil & mucosectomy?

I am 69. Just got the biopsy results back. Doesn't look good. Meeting with Doctor to get a plan together.

@mpmer Sincerely hope all goes well,keep us here updated,please.

Just recovering from tors and neck dissection. Sleeping upwards is great idea for keeping mucus at bay. Humidifier is also a good thing to have while sleeping. Make sure that pills are taken on time. Very important. I did mainly liquid and mashed up potatoes diet. Still on soft foods. Its managble. Might have a few rough days but it's not extreme.

Hi @vickigr02 Welcome to the Head and Neck cancer group. Being the caregiver can at times be more difficult than being the patient. As far as what to expect during treatment and recovery, that will be different for every patient. Some patients remark that the radiation was mildly annoying whilst others compare it to trench warfare. Recovery side effects vary from none to many. That being said, it may be best to wait and see what is needed and necessary rather than overwhelm yourself with “what if’s”.
You will find many current and former patients here who have vast experiences in this battle. They can offer opinions and ideas, which a physician cannot, simply by living the experience. Don’t hesitate to ask a question or run a thought past anyone here. We are glad to have you in this forum. Courage.

@mpmer Hello and welcome. When you get things confirmed with you doctor and get a plan established, you could and should begin your own discussion her in the head and neck cancer group. This way other patients will be alerted to your specific situation and more likely to help you out with questions.
This is a rather annoying bump in the road of life you are facing. Let’s get you through it.

@kamrin Thank you for sharing your experience. I do hope you heal as quickly as possible. How was your speech afterwards & have you suffered with dry mouth at all?

@vickigr02 I was surprisingly talking the night of surgery, right after could be meds. My voice slowly changed. Now almost at 3 weeks and my speech has improved but sometimes some words are unclear, which is normal. Dry mouth only in the middle of the night, I had it only like twice because I slept through the night and forgot to drink water.

@kamrin That is really positive. I am happy to hear it is going well for you & sounds as though you will be back on track before you know it. Did you have tosillectomy on both sides of the throat (bilateral)? Also how are you finding scar healing on the neck?

I'm 2 years recovered from tongue cancer, neck dissection and reconstruction. I used a power lift recliner for sleep. It helped a lot with excess mucus/saliva to be able to adjust my position. I also liked the lift feature to stand up without straining. They are usually expensive but we ordered one recently for my husband from Wal-Mart that was inexpensive and really nice.
I started with a nasal food tube that helped with fluids, meal replacement formula and meds. Later on I switched to a PEG food tube during radiation and chemo. Not everyone does the PEG but I loved mine. I kept up with my nutrition and my healing was quick. Also radiation mouth sores are common and not having to eat or take meds by mouth was a plus.
I did baking soda rinsed to help with healing and,to keep my mouth moist. I recommend mixing it in bottled water and using some sort of spittoon. Make,it as,easy as possible to use it often.

@vickigr02 Just on one side of the throat. Right side. The scar will take some time. But the surgeon only used glue, no stitches! Which I'm very glad.