Welcome to OCF, Drgnldy! Im sorry to read about what your mother is going thru. Its never easy watching someone you love go thru things like what your mother has been thru.

First, I hope her medical team are keeping her pain under control. If she is uncomfortable, make sure she gets something for it. Ive laid in the hospital after a major surgery and was in incredible pain. I wouldnt want anyone else to ever go thru that! If her doc has only prescribed one pain medicine ask them to add a second one just in case shes having a bad day and needs a dose sooner than allowed. That way she can switch back and forth between the 2 and shouldnt ever have to wait for the right time before taking meds for pain.

As far as the black areas, it sounds like its a circulation issue. To me (I am not a medical professional) Im thinking the area is probably still very swollen which could affect her circulation, especially when involving tiny blood vessels. Blood flow must get to the black area or she could have complications, maybe needing more (hopefully minor) surgery. The swelling can take a long time to go down, weeks maybe months for a total recovery. If your mother is having additional treatment like radiation she probably will have that in about 6-8 weeks. By then the swelling will have mostly subsided and she should be feeling much better.

The best thing you can do to help your mother is to be there for her. If possible, someone should stay with her as much as is allowed. You sound like a strong person so Im sure you are a strong advocate for your mom. Just remember, caregiving is a tough job! Make sure you take some time for you too.

Wishing you, your mother and the rest of your family all the very best.