Hello and thank you for your post,

I am so sorry to hear about your husband's diagnosis and need for surgery. I can appreciate this must be a difficult time for you both.

Your husband's specialist team will be able to give you both information about the surgery and what it will be like for him after he has had it. They will have experience of carrying out this type of surgery.  Also, the specialist nurse can give you both time to ask questions and may be able to put you both in touch with someone who has had this type of surgery. They may be able to show photos, that you may wish to see. The nurse will be your husband's support before and after surgery.  

Please also remember that the first few days and weeks after surgery is when it will look its worse. This is because it can take a few weeks for the swelling to go down and bleeding (if there is any) to stop.  It might help to read the information we have about this type of surgery on our website. We also have information about changes in appearance that may be helpful to read.

There are a couple of charities that provide support to people called Getahead  and Lets Face It you may wish to see their websites and contact them too.

You may also find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Take care,

Caroline