Hello... You and i are very similar - except for age... I was older when diagnosed at stage two. Id had a problem with my tongue for years before hand though - blessedly it didn't start to move until after they biopsied me (from0 a 1 lymph node in record time). The surgery I had is exactly as you described it. But I had 40 lymph nodes removed as well. The surgery is not a bad recovery usually just several weeks but radiation has a lasting impact. Though it's hopefully curative. Good luck.. I'm almost 15 months past radiation, and doing okay. I think being a non smoker, non drinker, etc... Definately aids in recovery. Good luck with your surgery.