If you’ve been diagnosed with head and neck cancer and surgery has been recommended, proper preparation is crucial for successful outcomes. In my years of treating patients, I’ve consistently observed that those who actively prepare experience better surgical results, smoother recoveries, and improved quality of life.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare effectively for your surgery. Remember, you’re not alone—a dedicated team of healthcare professionals will support you throughout this journey.
Understanding Your Surgery
Before preparing, understand why surgery is recommended. The primary goals are complete tumor removal with clear margins and preservation of vital functions like speech, swallowing, and appearance whenever possible.
Essential Questions to Ask:
- What exactly will be removed during surgery?
- How long will the procedure take?
- Will reconstruction be necessary?
- How will this affect my speech, swallowing, and appearance?
- What are the possible risks and complications?
- What happens after surgery?
Understanding your specific surgical plan helps you prepare mentally and practically for what lies ahead.
Medical Evaluation and Optimization
Comprehensive pre-operative testing ensures your body is ready for surgery:
- Blood tests: Check blood count, organ function, and clotting ability
- Imaging studies: CT, MRI, or PET-CT scans to map tumor extent
- Cardiac and pulmonary evaluation: Ensure heart and lung fitness for surgery
Any chronic conditions—diabetes, hypertension, heart disease—must be optimized before surgery. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you take. Some medications, particularly blood thinners, may need to be stopped before surgery.
Dental and Oral Health: A Critical Step
Dental preparation is often overlooked but essential. Your mouth harbors bacteria that can cause serious post-surgical complications including infections and delayed healing.
What You Need to Do:
- Get a comprehensive dental examination before surgery
- Treat all cavities, infections, and gum disease
- Extract problematic teeth at least two weeks before surgery
- Maintain meticulous oral hygiene: brush twice daily, use antimicrobial mouthwash, and floss regularly
- Keep your mouth moist to reduce infection risk
If your surgery involves the jawbone or radiation follows surgery, your dentist may recommend preventive tooth extractions to avoid future complications.
Nutritional Preparation
Good nutrition provides your body with resources for healing. Many head and neck cancer patients experience weight loss before surgery, but entering surgery malnourished increases complications.
Nutritional Strategies:
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day
- Focus on high-protein foods: eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, beans, cheese
- Choose calorie-dense options: nut butters, avocados, full-fat dairy, protein shakes
- Use nutritional supplements like Ensure or Boost between meals
- Work with a clinical nutritionist for personalized guidance
In some cases, I may recommend a feeding tube before surgery. This isn’t failure—it’s a proactive strategy ensuring adequate nutrition if swallowing becomes difficult after surgery.
Speech and Swallowing Assessment
Before surgery, you’ll meet with a speech-language pathologist who will assess your current abilities and establish a baseline for comparison. They’ll help you understand potential changes and may teach strengthening exercises.
Depending on your surgery, you may experience voice changes, difficulty with certain sounds, or need diet modifications temporarily. Most patients adapt well to proper therapy and support.
Stop Tobacco and Alcohol
If I could emphasize one preparation step above all others, it’s this: stop using tobacco and alcohol before surgery.
Continuing these habits significantly increases risks of:
- Poor wound healing and infections
- Respiratory complications
- Reconstruction failure
- Longer hospital stays
- Cancer recurrence
Quit at least 4 weeks before surgery for tobacco and 2 weeks for alcohol. The longer you abstain, the better your outcomes. Seek support through nicotine replacement therapy, prescription medications, counseling, or support groups. This is a judgment-free conversation—my goal is to help you succeed.
Emotional and Psychological Preparation
Fear and anxiety about surgery are completely normal. Common concerns include pain, appearance changes, functional losses, and uncertainty about the future.
Support Resources:
- Individual counseling with an oncology psychologist
- Support groups for head and neck cancer patients
- Relaxation techniques: meditation, deep breathing, guided imagery
- Include family and caregivers in your preparation
Your mental state affects physical recovery. Patients who address anxiety actively tend to experience better outcomes.
Planning for Hospital Stay and Recovery
Practical Preparations:
- Arrange a primary caregiver for the first 1-2 weeks after discharge
- Plan work leave—recovery may take weeks to months, depending on your surgery
- Verify insurance coverage and understand costs
- Prepare your home: clear pathways, arrange a recovery space, stock supplies
- Organize transportation for follow-up appointments
Hospital stay varies from 1-2 nights for minor procedures to a week or more for extensive surgeries with reconstruction.
Pre-Surgery Instructions
Follow these instructions precisely:
Fasting: Don’t eat or drink after midnight before surgery (or as instructed). Even small amounts can cause cancellation.
Medications: Follow specific guidance about which medications to continue or stop. Never adjust medications without consulting your surgical team.
What to Bring:
- Insurance cards and ID
- Medication list and allergy information
- Comfortable clothing
- Personal toiletries
- Phone charger
- Leave valuables at home
Day of Surgery:
- Shower with antimicrobial soap if provided
- Don’t apply lotions, makeup, or jewelry
- Arrive at the designated time
Working with a Multidisciplinary Team
Modern head and neck cancer treatment relies on specialists working together: surgeons, oncologists, nurses, nutritionists, speech therapists, and social workers. Each brings expertise, coordinating every aspect of your care for the best possible outcome.
Conclusion
Preparation is an integral part of successful cancer treatment. By optimizing your physical health, nutrition, oral hygiene, quitting tobacco and alcohol, and preparing emotionally, you’re actively participating in your healing.
I’ve witnessed remarkable resilience and recovery in hundreds of patients. While cancer changes lives, many emerge stronger with a deeper appreciation for what matters most. Every step you take to prepare brings you closer to healing and recovery.
If you have questions as you prepare for surgery, reach out to me or our healthcare team. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
With hope and commitment to your successful recovery,
Dr. Dudhyant Mandlik – Head & Neck Cancer Specialist
