One thing I was forced to become aware of, is role of lymph glands in healing. fluids normally flow to lymph glands, and when they are removed by surgery, or damaged by radiation, swelling is difficult to reduce. In my case, I still have oozing wounds on the scar line, and bleeding gums while sleeping, but have found, if active enough, muscle action dramatically helps, 15 months post surgery.

69yo male, Steam Engineer, Me=4,SCC=0, loving wife, living life as it comes (no other option)
We are all born from Mother, but live and die alone.
Make the best of it, Mommie did all she could, daddy was just a guidance councelor, the rest is ALL up to you.
...and now, 3rd occurance: Surgery 5/1/12