Parotid and skull base tumour

Hi BlueSky just wanted to welcome you to the group. Sorry I can’t help with surgery my tonsil cancer was treated by chemotherapy and radiotherapy I can help with radiotherapy. Hopefully some one will pop on 

Hazel xx

Hello, Bluesky

My surgery was different from yours, being for Squamous cell carcinoma and to neck, mouth and jaw, but I think the anxieties will be similar. 

With head and neck surgery and other treatments for cancerous/benign tumours a big worry is how it will affect both our appearance and function. In my experience the surgeons warn of all possible negative outcomes but at the same time will be making every effort to minimise these.

I found the outcomes better than I feared and have adapted to coping with them well. Hopefully your diagnosis will show no cancer present, but of course the surgery for a benign tumour is still challenging.

Whatever happens there will be someone here with similar experiences to offer support and advice. But I think you will find that the surgeons will do their best to minimise the possible problems. The initial fear, uncertainty and worry is actually one of the hardest stages of the process.

Good evening Bluesky, im much like Cathy where i have had reconstructive surgery, i had three big operations all to do with the mouth and neck where they did skin grafts bone grafts etc including rebuilding my lower jaw. In many cases, they don't know what they or how much surgery is needed until they actually start operating so this is why they give out a big list of side effects. My facial features changed due to the surgery but i knew this from day one, we are all different in the way we recover, cope, and with different side effects. My consultant was always honest with me and always said he would do his best along with the team, together we got through good and bad days. You are having a big operation so i fully understand your concerns and i wish you all the very best for your surgery and recovery, it's not easy but doable. Take care.

                                                                                 Chris 

Hi Bluesky

I am so sorry to hear about your cancer diagnosis and do understand the anxiety you are going through.

I also have been in a similar position with similar operations to Cathy and Chris and like them have found the skill of my medical team has always seen me through with the best possible outcome. The medical experts have to outline all the side effects but it does not mean necessarily that you will get all of them. It does give you a chance to be better prepared for any eventuality although it can cause a certain amount of anxiety. Like Cathy and Chris I also have adapted to the changes that have occurred as a result of several operations. I live a happy and full life and once you are recovered from your operation and treatment you will too.  

You sound like you are a very positive person and that will help you through along with support from your medical team and family.

Sending you big hugs

Lyn