Even for my FIL recovery from the surgery was not pretty easy. There are more long term effects from the radiation treatment, mostly xerostomia or dry mouth. It is now more than eight years since the surgery and radiation treatment. I think starting the medication for him before radiation treatment began helped minimize the effects of dry mouth which have not been as severe as expected. He had been advised to avoid spicy or acidic foods, toothpicks, mouthwashes containing alcohol, candy, gum, and soda unless they are sugar free, instead he can take natural dry mouth products. Although he does spend a lot of time, much more than he did before, taking care of his teeth and mouth.