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What is recovery from c02 laser surgery on tongue like

PeeWee99
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I have been diagnosed with  displasia after a biopsy of the underside of my tongue.

The consultant suggested  that one option was c02 laser surgery.to remove a wide area but was not keen to do it because of the impact of it.

He said it would be elective by me if I wanted it or we could just monitor for the next couple of months.

I have just received the formal letter and that says it is "High Grade Displasia" which now worries me as auntie Google says it must be dealt with by surgery!!

So I am now thinking maybe I should elect for the surgery, but I have quite a lot of social events in my diary over the next couple of months and want to know how the post surgey
recovery will be, anyone had any experience?

Thanks

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    Ring the helpline number 0808 800 4040.  Ask your team if there are any leaflets to read or not. 

  • Hello PeeWee99

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently been diagnosed with oral dysplasia and that you're concerned about the treatment options. 

    I've had a look through the forum, and I can see two members,   and  have both posted about having been through treatment for the same diagnosis. Hopefully, by tagging them into my reply here, you'll be able to connect with them, and they can share their experiences of treatment with you. 

    If you'd like to chat things through with one of our team of nurses, you're most welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Whatever decision you make, I wish you well PeeWee99. Do keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    Hi,

    Sorry to hear that you have a new diagnosis.

    I have had 2 laser surgeries to the right lateral side of my tongue, first op was because I had 2 ulcers, the biopsy showed moderate dysplasia but the results after my op showed mild dysplasia.

    It is possible to get 2 different gradings from a sample, which is what I have read too so bear that in mind.

    When I found out I could have an op I chose that because I felt it would give me peace of mind to have it removed.

    First op in 2022 and I had my second op in Feb this year. Just got my results and they were fine, I am on 3 monthly appointments at the moment but will revert back to 6 monthly appointments soon I hope.

    I would say the 2 weeks post op are the most difficult for eating, talking, drinking and keeping your mouth extra clean to avoid infection. I was given an anaesthetic mouthwash which numbed my tongue and it was great. I managed any pain well with paracetamol and ibuprofen, so it is doable.

    Because yours is in a different place you may have different difficulties than me but I would always opt to get the dysplasia removed since surgery now is better, to try and avoid a neck dissection op further down the line.

    I understand what it feels like to have to make a decision, how it affects you mentally and it changes what was carefree times, although I absolutely relish joy and try to live in the moment as much as I can.

    Here if you need any support.

    Take care,

    Sue x

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