HI there... recovery time varies depending on you and how quickly you heal. I am assuming you have a tumor in or on your tongue. I had the same surgery. Depending on where you live and what your hospitals protocol is you could be in the hospital from 10 -14 days. I live in Toronto - our protocol is to keep you in until all drains/trache/and IV's, and staples (to your wrist/leg) are removed - and you are able to eat small amounts of soft food. I was in for 10 days. I have a high pain tolerance and heal rather quickly. Because of this I was on a plane 17 days post surgery and laying on a beach in Mexico. Some people take longer but usually full physical recovery is up to 6 weeks.

If they are doing a neck dissection (THEY SHOULD BE) then you may need physio for your shoulder/arm/neck on the affected side.

I was able to eat softish sold foods and wash it down with fluids. Breads were hard, (they're dry and bulky) and I don't eat meat but haven't in years, so I am not sure but I have heard it can be challenging.

Overall despite how daunting it is.. the surgery is not that bad!!!

I do hope you are being treated at a ccc. This is not a cancer to be messed with. You need an ENT who deals specifically with Oral cancer ALL THE TIME. They know the ins and outs and tend not to down grade the seriousness of this DX - which some less experienced ENTs may.

Hugs and welcome.