Hello and thank you for your post,

I am sorry to learn that you have needed cancer treatment; this must not be easy for you.

I can appreciate that it may feel like it has been a long time since you had your surgery, and that you are feeling a bit frustrated with the recovery. It sounds like you had a big surgery with a large number of lymph nodes removed, which will have affected the nearby structures and nerves, and this can take a long time to recover from, several months, and to feel fully recovered may take up to a year.

It is always hard to know what to expect after a surgery like this, and everybody's recovery time is individual. It is good news that your physiotherapist is pleased with your recovery. If you are concerned at all, it might be helpful to speak with your specialist nurse (CNS) if you have one. As they know your situation, they will be able to reassure you about how well your recovery is going.

You may also be interested in the Head and Neck Cancer UK (HANCUK) website, which provides information and support to people affected by head and neck cancers, including survivorship.

I hope this helps in some way. Please get back to us again if you need to. You can also give the nurses a call on 0808 800 4040 Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm

Jemma