Welcome to OCF! My original tumor was similar to what you have described. It was on the inside of my left cheek. The surgery sounds difficult but it will be relatively easy. Have you asked why they are planning on keeping you under for 24 hours?

My advice is to eat like crazy now. Eat all your favorites and dont worry about gaining a few pounds, in fact that would be very good if you are slim. Your sense of eating and swallowing will change and it will become difficult for a while while doing radiation. So get all your favorites and have them now. Its only temporary but it is horrible to crave something for weeks.

Stick around here and we will help you with support and info to get you thru everything you are facing.

Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile