Ex-Bills QB Jim Kelly undergoes cancer surgery, doctors expect speedy recovery

Doctor for ex-Bills QB Jim Kelly expect a speedy recovery following surgery to treat jawbone cancer. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

Doctors treating Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly's cancer of the upper jawbone said Friday they expect a speedy recovery after Kelly underwent surgery to treat the cancer.

Kelly, who played 10 seasons for Buffalo Bills, announced earlier this week that he had been diagnosed with cancer and said the cancer had not spread to other areas of his body. He said his prognosis for a full recovery was "very good."

The Erie County Medical Center released a statement on Kelly's behalf.

"At Mr. Kelly's request, we thank everyone for their concern and well wishes for him and his family," the statement said, via NFL.com. "Today, Mr. Kelly underwent a partial maxillectomy to remove a squamous cell carcinoma of the upper gingival caused be chronic irritation at the gum site. He underwent reconstruction with a dental obturator. The surgery went very well. We are hopeful for and anticipate a speedy recovery and successful outcome."