I would ask about TORS (transoral robotic surgery). Depending on the extent of the tumor and involved structures, you could be a candidate for this much less invasive surgery method.

Base of tongue tumors are often HPV+, but they do not usually present in the oral tongue. I would still ask to have the biopsy tested for HPV.

Are you being treated at a large cancer center that sees many patients per year?

I would try to get a 2nd opinion as well. I saw doctors at 4 cancer centers in a 1 week time frame before deciding on a treatment plan.