Thanks to all of you who responded. My husband found out today that he is having the "Modified Radical" type of neck dissection. The surgeon told my husband, just as you have mentioned Brian, that eating should be "OK" and will not have any effect on speaking abilities. As far as neck/muscle movement - he was told that he will need physical therapy afterwards. (I think he said for 3 days a week). The recoup time the doctor mentioned is "3-5 days in-hospital". The doctor also told him that there "should not be" any more radiation treatments post-surgery. He did mention something about taking out the Jugular (not sure if I spelled that right) vein just on the one side of the neck. Is this common for a "modified" dissection? Are there any major risks for this type of procedure? What are the chances of infection? My husband is scheduled to have this surgery in a few weeks - and although I'm still apprehensive about it, I do feel better knowing that most everyone considers this to be a "walk in the park" compared to the radiation. Thanks again for the info - it's been very helpful.