Max, glade to here things are moving along for you. I too had tongue surgery last year and for the most part speech was fine after a week or so. The down side is a year later the entire left side of my mouth is still numb so no eating on that side and there is still a metallic taste in mouth most days. But considering what was done, not to bad. Also had neck dissection August 2012 to remove a tumor and 35 nodes. The recovery was not to bad but be prepared for neck, jaw and ear pain afterwards. An ice pack will become your new BFF. Hope all goes well for you!