Dr Amit Chakraborty, Head and Neck Surgeon, SSO Hospital Mumbai
Many oral cancer patients are advised to undergo surgery to improve their quality of life. Advances in reconstructive surgery are helping many oral cancer patients to be able to regain facial appearance, confidence, and essential functions, including speaking and eating, after treatment. Hence, the patients shouldn’t hesitate to undergo surgery. Consult the treating doctor, who will guide you regarding this.
Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers seen in people across India. It tends to begin in the mouth, tongue, gums, cheeks, or even throat. The factors behind a surge in oral cancer cases tend to include tobacco, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and infection with Human papillomavirus (HPV). The symptoms seen in the patients can be a non-healing mouth ulcer, persistent pain, difficulty swallowing, loose teeth, bleeding, or a lump in the mouth or neck that will need timely attention from an expert. So, understand that when oral cancer is diagnosed at an advanced stage, a majority of people are advised to undergo surgery to remove the tumour and surrounding tissues. While this surgery can be life-saving, many believe that it may compromise the facial appearance, speech, chewing, and swallowing, depending on the size and location of the tumour. There are many myths linked to surgery that it can permanently alter the facial appearance of the patient. However, it is time to bust this myth. So, surgery is a safe and effective option for oral cancer patients and will not only improve the quality of life but also restore both appearance and function.
Why is surgery important for patients?
If you are one of those who has been detected with oral cancer, then you might worry that you will permanently lose your facial appearance after major oral cancer surgery. However, advancements in reconstructive surgery have made it possible to be able to restore both appearance and function. The expert will use tissue, skin, muscle, or bone from other parts of the body to rebuild affected areas of the face, jaw, tongue, or mouth. These procedures help patients regain a more natural appearance and improve the ability to eat, speak, and smile. The patients will also be advised of rehabilitation, speech therapy, and nutritional support for prompt recovery.
The last word: Patients should opt for surgery without any doubts, as the surgery will not alter the appearance or compromise their functions, such as speech or the ability to eat.
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