tonsil cancer

Hi, I found a lump in my neck early November 2024, had MRI, CT, PET scans and 2 attempted biopsies they weren't able to provide definitive diagnosis. As a result beginning of January 2025, I had tonsillectomy and further biopsy, I've now been told cancer is present and they intend to do a neck dissection to remove the lump and also further excision of the tonsil area to try to make sure whatever is there is removed. This is happening early February, I am nervous and am trying to process the fact that I have cancer, I am glad that things seems to be happening quickly, I really don't want to be in hospital any longer than necessary, I understand it's a 2/3 day stay and then recovery at home. I found the tonsillectomy very painful and am dreading the excision more than the external lump removal, I would be grateful if any one has any tips on aiding recovery, I will have a friend staying for a couple of days when I get out and I assume I may see a district nurse for any wound dressing changes or of course do it myself.

Parents
  • Hi pummi...thankfully not a cancer diagnosis but in relation to your recovery following surgery..

    I had a tumour in my parotid gland, had school aged children at the time and queried whether I had mumps.. the lump grew larger, swallowing became more difficult as well as the ability to move my he d and neck.. several visits to my G.P who were all baffled..aspiration carried out in hospital where I was being 'barrier nursed'  in case of infection.. lots of xrays and scans and finally the deci ion to operate.. the tumour was described as a polo shape encircling the parotid gland.. thankfully benign ( sorry waffling but I thought a bit of background would be useful)   my recovery was gradu l without any problems..D.N called for a few days,  after that I took care of it myself... 3 monthly check ups, then 6 then 12 then 3 years...this happened in the early 1980's.. no reoccurrence ️  

    I wish you a good recovery and that your surgery goes well  

Reply
  • Hi pummi...thankfully not a cancer diagnosis but in relation to your recovery following surgery..

    I had a tumour in my parotid gland, had school aged children at the time and queried whether I had mumps.. the lump grew larger, swallowing became more difficult as well as the ability to move my he d and neck.. several visits to my G.P who were all baffled..aspiration carried out in hospital where I was being 'barrier nursed'  in case of infection.. lots of xrays and scans and finally the deci ion to operate.. the tumour was described as a polo shape encircling the parotid gland.. thankfully benign ( sorry waffling but I thought a bit of background would be useful)   my recovery was gradu l without any problems..D.N called for a few days,  after that I took care of it myself... 3 monthly check ups, then 6 then 12 then 3 years...this happened in the early 1980's.. no reoccurrence ️  

    I wish you a good recovery and that your surgery goes well  

Children