Emily, depending on how much tongue you've had removed you speech should clear up. I had 1/3 - 1/2 and the muscle of my real tongue - the old side - has slowly strengthened to compensate for the side with the flap. I still have a couple of words that cause me problems and I Still get lispy when I am tired, but for the most part it improves steadily - my husband says he can't tell if there's a problem. I think the surgeon has a lot to do with it as well. Mine did a great job of rebuilding my tongue.:) even my rads dr. Was amazed at my mobility. It acts normal for the most part. Time does heal. Hugs