Hi Cathy, and welcome. I had the neck dissection and can tell you that there will probably always be a degree of numbness on that side, although two years out, I have regained enough feeling so that I don't notice anymore. I do remember the first time I felt an itch, scratched it, and felt it. This will happen for you too, down the road. As far as the swelling, ask your nurse to show you lateral massage. This is a simple thing done with just the tips of your fingers, very gently, and for me, made an incredible difference and reduced the swelling almost magically. You want to be sure you are doing it correctly, however.

About food, do not forget gravy (grin).

Right now the best thing you can do is be patient. Not easy, but in this case time does heal a lot.

Joanna