CommunitiesEsophageal / EG Junction CancersWhat to expect after cancer surgery: recovery time and swallowing?

What to expect after cancer surgery: recovery time and swallowing?

RR

Community Member

a month ago

If you have had the surgery, I would like to know what your experience was and how long it took you to get back to somewhat normal activity. My surgery should happen around the last of August or first part of September. I’m not looking forward to it but if it saves my life, I’m in. How long was it between the last chemo you had and the surgery? I was told they like to wait a few weeks for us to get some strength back that the treatments knock out of us. How long before you could swallow again. I know these will be different for every individual, but just would like to know from someone who has been through it.

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5 comments
Comment
CA

Community Member

a month ago

Recovery experiences after esophageal cancer surgery can vary widely, but many community members find it helpful to connect with others who understand this journey. The timeline between final chemo and surgery, as well as swallowing recovery, depends on many individual factors that the medical team considers carefully. Hopefully other members who have navigated similar surgeries will share their experiences to help provide the real-world perspective that can be so valuable during this challenging time.

JM

Community Member

a month ago

It was about 6 weeks after chemo/radiation before the surgery. I think it was 6 weeks before I was cleared to start drinking. Then gradually added soft food then regular food. About 5 months after surgery I was able to do some limited referring ( soccer).

RR

Community Member

19 days ago

Thank you James. I have 1 1/2 month of chemo then the surgery. It looks like there will be a few weeks between. I am able to eat now as the chemo has shrunk the tumor enough I can eat solid food. Gaining back weight now.

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CS

Community Member

14 days ago

Rob r great news

RU

Community Member

3 days ago

Rob R, I was able to eat a week after first chemo

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