Hi all,
I have mucoepidermoid carcinoma, low grade, in the buccal region (sandwiched between the upper and low jaw pivotal point). The first doctor (who eventually became my surgeon) prescribed midface degloving or face dissection (Weberferguson cut) to access the tumour (3cm diameter lump).

Initially I was horrified with the risk of disfigurement. I know I should be more concerned about cure than appearance but I have just ended a contractual job to undergo medical treatment so appearance is very important for me to secure the next job. So I visited a total of 6 doctors for alternatives. 3 doctors advised the face cut. 3 doctors says there's a chance of intra-oral removal of the tumour without cutting up the face. I see now that many of the members here went for the more aggressive approach with bone removal and use of obturators. Now, I fear if I have made the wrong choice of going for the less aggressive approach.

My tumour has been removed and my surgeon says the margins are clear. I am going for post-operation review tomorrow. My mouth can hardly open wide enough for a spoon to enter without at least 5 minutes of stretching.

I'm worried now that a simple case might be complicated for my fear of disfigurement. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Tomorrow is my judgement day....
huihien