Hi yes a few of us have gone through the same thing - I managed to avoid the split jaw -I told my dr not to do it because it was easy - if he had to to get all the cancer then that was fine but if he could get it all without splitting my jaw then I would prefer it - he did - is this cancer under your tongue? If so its oral tongue cancer not base of tongue. Your tongue base is down your throat. Your treatment sounds like its oral tongue - and similar to mine.the surgery sounds daunting and I won't lie it is but the recovery isn't too bad. The drains are a bit uncomfortable for the day or two they're in - and you should bring an ipad or notepad because the trache will keep you from talking for a day or two as well. Pain wise it wasn't too bad for me mostly I was numb for the neck dissection and swelling. You'll get through it. good luck