Cal you sound exactly like I did in May of this year. THe hurting tongue,which at 1st I blamed on biting it, the aching ear, sore throat. Same symptoms as you. I had the surgery Aug 3rd and had 8 nodes talken out of my neck. The Dr said I was showing clear and have to see him every 6 weeks for awhile. The tongue will ache and your throat feel a little strange, but I think you caught it early. I don't get chemo or rad just do what Dr says and have a positive attitude. I belive thinking positive is the main thing. I do have at least 1/3rd less tongue, but it is far from being what i expected. I can eat and kinda talk funny,LOL but am well and living. Food doesn't taste the same , but I go for it anyway. I just thought I would tell you what I am experiencing.. You are in my prayers. I hope this helped somewhat.