Hi Scott, welcome. I'm not sure what determines who should get surgery and who should get radiation/chemo but I think the advice to get a second opinion at a cancer center is excellent.
We first met with a surgeon when my husband was diagnosed with tongue cancer. He immediately referred us to a member of his "team" for a radiation and chemo consult as he felt that would be a good place to start.
I think the team approach is invaluable because you have a whole bunch of smart folks considering you and your body from a variety of angles.