I have decided to go ahead with reconstruction of my mandible with a fibula free flap if circulation in my legs is good. The surgery will be in December. I have an appointment next week with the prosthodontist who will be on the team. The plastic surgeon trained at SloanK and is the only one doing this surgery here. Of course my ENT oncologist will also participate. I have been told that I will be in ICU for a few days, in the hospital for 2 weeks, and have several months of followup therapy.
Thanks to all who responded to the thread started by August requwesting information on this procedure.
I had swallowing problems before OC and have to have my esophagus dilated every few years. With half a mandible I only have 2 teeth to chew with and 2 to bite/nibble food. I have to be very careful to eat tiny bites and chew well or I choke. My bite is shifting and the numbness of part of the tongue from surgery sometimes gives me problems. I am afraid that if I wait too long, I may have serious choking.