My mother (Helen) is scheduled for surgery for tongue cancer in nine days. So far we have talked to the surgeon once and will see him again next Tuesday after he looks at her catscan and chest xray. But when do we see an oncologist? Since the surgeon is an ENT, it seems that at some point we also need to be working with an oncologist. When is that? Is there any reason to find and visit an oncologist before the surgery? Or is an oncologist seen after surgery? Would our post-operative visits be with the surgeon? Sorry to sound so naive. I could really use some guidance here, especially since her surgery is coming up so soon.

Thanks, Sandra

Sandra, I think you are on track. I saw the ENT and plastic surgeon before my surgery. Then I saw the radiation oncologist, and the medical oncologist for the chemo after the surgery. The ENT referred me to both. If you don't want to take this on faith, you might ask your ENT if he will be making a referral post surgery. Good luck to both you and your mom.

Joanna

P.S. Yes, you will be seeing the ENT after the surgery for check ups. He will be the primary care provider.