If you opt for the radiation, they should do a head and neck CT at your planning session. I had an MRI before surgery and it did not pick up my tumor. Thankfully it was clearly visible so we already knew it was there. Some doctors rely on scans more than others. My surgeon is not a big fan of the PET scan but I'll be getting one anyway since it's part of the protocol for my clinical trial.

I know how hard it is to make the decision to go ahead with radiation. My tumor board was split on whether or not I needed it. My surgeon felt that since my positive nodes were both tucked right up under my tongue and were totally encapsulated, that I didn't need radiation. The radiologist disagreed. If a second opinion will help you make your decision or help you feel better about the decision you've already made, then go for it.