Jessica, thanks for the update! Wishing your mother a speedy and pain-free recovery.

Im not a medical professional so my view is from what Ive personally experienced with my own major surgery and seen happen with others over the years on this forum. Unfortunately the larger new section of tongue being too big is fairly common in patients with this type of surgery. Right now its swollen and will remain swollen for at least a few more weeks. Very gradually this will subside. I know this probably sounds like an exaggeration but after a major surgery like this, it can take an entire year to completely settle down and become part of her tongue. The healing process can be a long one especially with patients who have had intricate graphs or a free flap. Reconstruction can be done down the road if the new tongue section is still oversized after one year.

I dont think physicians like to give bad news to their patients so they avoid the touchy subjects. Just remember every single patient is different and will adjust and respond to procedures, medicines, etc in their own unique way. Even 2 patients who on paper appear practically identical will have very different stories about their recovery, pain levels, etc.

You may want to ask the doc about PT with a speech pathologist. This is something that can help her to bounce back quicker and gain better functioning of her new tongue. This takes lots of practice! Ive seen many patients describe how they would bite the new tongue and since its transplanted tissue they didnt feel it but it would bleed. The speech pathologist will also help her with her enunciation and eating. I would try to get the ball rolling on this as soon as you can. It really will make a big difference in helping your mother to adapt.

Hang in there, hopefully the worst is behind you both.



PS... Please look for the tiny flashing envelope next to the "My Stuff" tab (top of the page in the center). Click on it and read your private messages Ive sent you about how to add a signature. It really is a huge help if we know the basic history. Please help us to better help you.