Hello Jack,

I had surgery for cancer (T4N0M0) of the buccal mucosa which evolved from leukoplakia. It resulted in a partial maxillectomy, and free flap graft from my right thigh.

I am over 4 months post-surgery and over 4 weeks post-radiation. I am still in pain in jaw from the surgery and trismus, and rads which worsened trismus, dried up my mouth and turned saliva into the thickness of molasses. Taste buds are off but not as bad as I have heard from others. My Doctors tell me I am "on schedule" as far as recovery goes.

I second the recommendation to find a CCC, as all the medical personnel you will need are in house. I chose MDAnderson in Houston, but Memorial Sloan Kettering. Dana-Farber, Mayo Institute are also highly rated. The U of Chicago was the highest rated last year- I may be wrong with the specific designation but it is in Chicago.

I live overseas and had to bring my family with me to Houston. Chose MDA as we have family in Texas. I have been here for nearly 6 months and will be going home soon. It has been a hellish experience but found myself in excellent medical hands.

It is a roller coaster ride but I am alive.

Sorry to ramble.