Me again. My brother and family returned from their week-long trip to the mountains last night. His face is extremely swollen - both sides. I spoke with a nurse at MD Anderson and she said the lymph nodes were damaged from the radiation and it is difficult for the fluids to drain from his face. All she could recommend was a facial massage by someone experienced in dealilng with lymphodema - that's hard to find in poedunk - I know, I've been searching a 100 mile radius. Has anyone found anything to help reduce this swelling? I thought maybe someone who had experienced this might have found a way to ease the swelling. I appreciate all advice. We did have hospice look at it - it was a weekend nurse who was not familiar with his case. First she asked, "Have you been stung by a wasp?" - No. Then, again having not looked over his records to see his tongue had been removed, said, "Stick out your tongue." So, obviously, no help there. I'm not faulting them, as I don't think many cases of oral cancer come their way, it was just sad. Anyway, I know David would welcome any relief to the swelling - it's starting to obstruct his vision - any even a little reduction would help.
Thanks,
Tonya

Tonya,
I was swollen for weeks after my neck resection. The tissues gradually go down, almost imperceptibly, because of all the cutting and the lymph issue. I never tried massage though. It was all too tender.
Your brother's surgery was extremely intense. I imagine his tissues will be swollen for awhile. My heart goes out to him.
Ali Mae