Hi Sharon,
I know this response is a month late, but when I read your post, I had to respond. I am feeling the same way. I had a modified radical neck disection in August 2002 and my tx ended in October. The swelling has happened intermittently until the last month. Now it happens daily. My ent/surgeon says the same thing, that iit is lymph fluid that pools on that side of the face due to the surgery/radiation. He didnt seem too concerned about it either, and I practically had to force him to write me a referral to a physical therapist. I have seen my PT 1 time, who has diagnosed me with having secondary lymphedema, due to my cancer. it is more common in the limbs, however it can happen anywhere lymph nodes are involved. Anyway, she is teaching me manual lymph drainage, which is a light touch massage, trying to push the fluid to the nodes under my arm. I do have pain as well and feel like I have the flu for the last week or so now I am questioning the diagnosis. Apparently there is no pain associated with lymphedema, only a tight full feeling.
Did you see your doctor earlier this month? I am curious what he said and how you are feeling. Let me know if you can.

Kelley