I'm caring for my mom who had part of her jaw bone removed last year and a cheek flap surgery. She is doing pretty well and we just had her check and things look to be clear. Her issue is really swelling of her tongue and cheek. Her doctor thinks it's lymph fluid build up. Has anyone had any success with massage? Can anyone recommend a certified person who does this in Chicago? I've searched and searched and I'm not finding anyone. Thanks so much in advance for your help.
-renee

Welcome to OCF! After undergoing a mandibulectomy the recovery can take a full year. Its a major surgery with so much intricate details involved. Swelling can continue for months, even up to a year after this type of surgery. Ive been thru it so Im speaking from not just my experience but also what Ive witnessed other patients go thru as well. After a full year has past after the surgery your mother should be able to have debulking done or any revisions necessary. This is very common with this type of surgery to have reconstruction done later.

Our members are from all over the world. Im not sure who is in your area and if they would know of the specific specialist you are looking for. Your best chance of this would be at a CCC or a major teaching hospital. Since you are in the Chicago area there must be someone there who can help.

Best wishes!

Thank you for your reply. I've been reading these threads for over a year and I've found them so helpful.

It's been almost a year and a half and she's still having swelling. She's so miserable.

I think I might have found someone at a hospital here who does massage.

Thank you!

Massage - lymphatic massage is terrific. - it really helps build new pathways. Hugs