Neck dissection. Post surgery

Hi.

I am one week post surgery following neck dissection to remove some lymph nodes. This was to see if there was any cancer cells present following the removal of a small cancer on my tongue 5 weeks ago.

i was told there would be some swelling, but I look like I’ve swallowed a balloon. It is also very tender to touch.

my scar goes in an arc from my ear down across the front of my neck. I am not seeing the doctor for another week.

my question is, how do I tell if it’s swelling or lymphoedema?

thank you 

  • Hello Lindy,

    I can appreciate your concern about this. Just to say that lymphoedema is a condition that if it does develop, would occur later on, and not now.

    After this type of surgery, some swelling is to be expected, and can last several weeks or longer, although it will reduce gradually over this time as healing occurs.

    Your doctor will review you in a week, so do ask any questions that you may have at that appointment.

    I hope that your recovery goes well,

    Best wishes,

    Vanda