Hi I’m just wondering if any of you who’ve had the operation I’m about to have which is removal of part of my tongue, neck dissection and reconstruction of tongue with arm flap have any advice about sleeping comfortably afterwards? Presumably I’ll be sleeping upright initially ? Did you invest in a v shaped pillow and are there any that you would recommended?
Good evening Nicky, my husband slept upright for about 4wks afterwards,we got him a V shaped pillow for support, we just got an average sized one which made sleeping a little easier. With him suffering with thick mucus and constantly caughing this up, a spitbowl was always close by. Fellow wife Mel x
I was advised by oncology to source a V shaped pillow to aid upright sleeping , used it throughout my treatment and recovery, helped greatly when feeding via pump to PEG tube during nights and for minimising acid reflux. I still use my V shaped pillow, find it very comforting.
Bought from Argos.
Michael
I used a wedge pillow (plenty on Amazon). I found this have more control than a V pillow for.
It may also be useful to get a small support to go under his knee so that it does not get too strained from the flatness of the bed for the lower body when in an upright position. You will often see them used in MRI machines for the same reason.
My lovely partner made me a sloping wooden support to lean against in bed, that worked brilliantly, with pillows. If you know anyone who can do basic woodwork...
September 2022 aged 63 diagnosed with HPV associated SCC base of tongue T4 N2 M0. Chemo & radiotherapy for 6 weeks ending Nov 2022. Now over 2 years all clear. See my profile for longer story
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007