"Above & Beyond" Member (500+ posts) Joined: Sep 2009 Posts: 701 Likes: 1 | Gina,
The swelling in Clark's face after the jaw recon in November was minimal. And he did not have much pain. His leg was the more uncomfortable of the two areas. Getting around was slow and painful. Well worth the time and effort though. He can eat better as a result.
Emotionally, he did well. I think the more you know before surgery the better, as you are doing now. He did have some days when he would get frustrated and I had to take the hand mirror away for a while. The patch of skin that will cover your jaw will be a different color. That can be camoflaged with products. Until now, Clark did not use them but he probably will for a wedding we will attend at the end of April.
Keep in mind that healing will take time and that this surgery is to IMPROVE the quality of your life.
Anita (68) CG to husband, Clark, 79, DX SCC 11/07, T4N0Mx, PEG 1/08, RAD, post rad infection 3/08, HBOT 40 dives, ORN, Surg 11/09 mandibulectomy w/fibular graft. Plastic Surg 4/10, 12/10, 3/11, 10/11, 4/12, 10/12. All PETS clear, PEG out 1/11. 6/11 non union jaw fracture Fractured jaw w/surgery 7/14 Aspiration pneumonia 7/21, 10/22 PEG 7/21 Botox injections
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