Overwhelming and scary times are ahead for you and your husband, no doubt. Especially if radiation and chemo are recommended after surgery. Many of us here have been through what you (caregiver) and your husband (patient) will be facing in the coming months of treatment and recovery. So ask away.
Your husband's overall health going into this will determine how well he will recover from this ordeal. Just know that life won't be the same again. Quality of life could possibly be a factor, but he is still young so hopefully he does well. There is hope, and that is what you both must cling onto.
Like your husband's scan, my CT scan prior to my hemiglossectomy (SCC) and neck dissection surgeries was also clear, but my ENT surgeon still recommended a neck dissection to remove some lymph nodes to be safe. Ten were removed. I am glad they did remove them because one node was cancerous and showing signs of leeching out. Which means in the few weeks between the scan and surgery my cancer had spread.
For me (43), the neck dissection has been the hardest part of this. My shoulder hurt like hell for weeks after surgery, but it improved with time. Physical therapy has helped tremendously with pain alleviation and getting mobility back. Working on building strength now.
I am approaching the 6 month mark since completing a grueling treatment of surgeries (hemiglossectomy & modified neck dissection), 33 doses of radiation, and 2 doses of chemotherapy. And I have regained my energy back in a big way. I walk 3 days a week with about 200 miles walked in 6 months. I ride my bike 3 days a week as well, and have about 700 miles ridden in 6 months! No shoulder pain. 😁 I also go disc golfing on weekends with my brother and recently bought a kayak. Staying active will help with recovery so life can be enjoyed again.
As for hair appearing on the tongue flap, it is a possibility. I've read about others experiencing it. I have not noticed hair appearing yet, but my flap was harvested from my lower forearm which is mostly hairless.
Your husband may be put on a feeding tube for awhile to allow his tongue to heal. How long is unclear. Everyone is different, so it could only be a month (as in my case) or it could be much longer. Maintaining his caloric intake will help with healing and recovering. Hydration is also vital. Speaking of...
Your husband should stop drinking alcohol going forward, as that could cause a recurrence of cancer. After what he will go through to beat head and neck cancer quitting should be a piece of cake. That is a choice he will have to make, and live with.
Good luck to you both.
