Free flap reconstruction

Hi MOYZ672acb. Wow that is a mouthful. No pun intended in relation to your surgery. I meant your user name.

I have had similar surgery to you but not exactly the same. We do have the free flap reconstruction in common. I had jaw cancer resulting over several years with a right partial mandibulectomy and 2 maxillectomies with a free flap reconstruction with my second maxillectomy. Hence now no upper jaw but no bone reconstruction as there was a high chance of failure. Reconstruction with implants into my cheek bones with titanium bracket attached which denture attaches to. I have a marked droop on the right side of my mouth but I can smile but not bring my lips together to kiss, blow or whistle. It is 3 years since my last maxillectomy. 

I do have issues with eating and can only manage puree as no longer able to chew. Over time I have become accustomed to my new normal and am living a happy life and participate in many activities. 

When did you have your op and what issues are you having apart from not being able to smile.? It was a big op so I do hope that your recovery is going well.

Lyn

Hi Just sent you a reply in private msg -  noticed you’d accepted my friend request this morning. I can’t offer specifics regarding your type of cancer but hope what I’ve written regarding some of the other things you’ve previously mentioned is of some use. The msg which I’ve just completed is waiting to go through the moderators Cheers Ian

Thank you

 A good evening MOYZ672abc, i very much like Sophie66. Mine was floor-of-the-mouth cancer and lower jaw reconstruction involving a free flap from my wrist and skin grafts from my leg and stomach to help repair the damaged area. I don't know of anyone on here who has had the same operation as you, although some have had roof of the mouth cancer. Sometimes it takes time for everything to heal up and function properly, so maybe this is the case with your smile. Wishing you all the best with your continued recovery, take care. 

                                                                                     Chris x

Hi Chris, thanks for replying.