Oral (H&N) Cancer

Oral and Head and Neck (H&N) Cancers can develop in the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, or throat. Surgical removal is often the first and most critical step in treatment. Our surgeons are trained in H&N Surgical Oncology and Reconstructive Surgery.

Overview

Understanding Oral and Head & Neck Cancer Surgery

Oral and Head and Neck (H&N) Cancers can develop in the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth, or throat. Surgical removal is often the first and most critical step in treatment. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon works closely with an oncology team to precisely remove the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated.

Why this surgery is important

Surgery is often the most effective way to treat these cancers, giving patients the best chance for a complete cure. Early and precise removal of the tumor can prevent the cancer from spreading and improve long-term outcomes. In addition, the surgeon’s expertise in the reconstructive phase helps restore both function and appearance, which can be crucial for speech, swallowing, and overall quality of life.

When to consider Oral and Head & Neck Cancer Surgery

Surgical intervention may be necessary if you have:

A confirmed diagnosis of oral or head and neck cancer
Tumors affecting the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth, or throat
Cancer that requires removal of surrounding tissue to prevent spread
A need for Reconstructive Surgery to restore function or appearance following tumor removal

The Oral Cancer Treatment process

What to expect

Before surgery

The journey begins with a Biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and stage of cancer. Your surgeon will collaborate with an oncology team, including a medical oncologist and a radiation oncologist, to create a comprehensive treatment plan.

You will also undergo diagnostic tests, such as CT Scans or MRIs, to precisely locate the tumor. Your surgeon will discuss the procedure, its goals, and what to expect during recovery.

During surgery

The surgical approach depends on the tumor’s size, location, and extent. The main objectives include:

Complete tumor removal, including a margin of healthy tissue
Removal of lymph nodes in the neck if necessary
Immediate Reconstructive Surgery, often using grafts from other parts of the body, to restore function and appearance

Each step is carefully planned to maximize treatment effectiveness while preserving as much function as possible.

After surgery

Post-operative care often occurs in a hospital setting, with close monitoring. Recovery may involve:

Managing pain and swelling with medication
Temporary feeding or breathing tubes if needed
Detailed instructions on wound care, diet, and activity restrictions

Full recovery can take time and may include physical therapy, speech therapy, or additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing and detect any signs of recurrence early.

FAQs about Oral Cancer Surgery

Cleburne Oral Surgery is here to address all your questions and concerns regarding Oral Cancer Surgery.

Will my facial appearance be
changed after surgery?

This depends on the size and location of the tumor. For smaller tumors, the change may be minimal. For larger tumors that require the removal of significant tissue or bone, the surgeon will perform Reconstructive Surgery to restore your appearance as much as possible. Our primary goal is always to achieve a functional and aesthetic outcome, and your surgeon will discuss the expected changes with you beforehand.

How long will I be in the hospital after Oral
Head and Neck Cancer Surgery?

The length of your hospital stay depends on the extent of the surgery. A simple removal might be an outpatient procedure, while more extensive surgeries with reconstruction could require a hospital stay of several days to a week or more. The medical team will monitor your recovery closely to ensure you are ready to go home.

Will I be able to talk and eat normally
after surgery?

Your ability to talk and eat will likely be affected immediately after surgery, and a temporary liquid or soft-food diet may be necessary. For more extensive surgeries, speech and swallowing rehabilitation may be required. Your care team will work with you through a rehabilitation plan to help you regain these essential functions over time.

What are the side effects of Oral
Head and Neck Cancer Surgery?

Common side effects can include pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, and facial numbness. The extent of these side effects is directly related to the location and size of the tumor removed. Your care team will help you manage these side effects, and many of them improve over time with physical or speech therapy.

Will I need additional treatment
after surgery?

Yes, it is very common to require additional treatments after surgery. Depending on the pathology report, your surgeon and oncologist may recommend a course of radiation therapy or chemotherapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. This integrated approach provides the best chance for a successful long-term outcome.

Is Oral Head and Neck Cancer
Surgery painful?

The procedure itself is not painful, as it is performed under General Anesthesia. Following the surgery, you will experience some pain and discomfort, which will be managed with medication. Your care team will ensure you have an effective pain management plan in place to make your recovery as comfortable as possible.

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