Hello again NOB (you gotta change that name smile )

I have to stress again I had the full Radical neck dissection including removal of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle and removal of the nerve that parallels that muscle. I can ASSURE you my head does work fine laugh

There is very little I can't do exactly as I did before surgery. It takes a while to get back some range of motion but it isn't that bad. Recovery time in the hospital is 4 to 7 days (mine was 5 days and I had a tonsil removed at the same time) She can expect to be up and moving in approximately 1 to 2 days, eating is not a problem except that they start food intake slowly because of post surgery (anesthesia) issues. Taste and tongue function is usually not affected by this surgery. If she needs radiation treatments then taste can be affected (usually temporary).

She should be VERY able to take part in Christmas events including eating, singing, talking and celebrating!

Take care

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.