Hi Jordan, Jack had the neck dissection so I can offer you some suggestions on that. First, remember that what you look like right after sugery is NOT what you will look like when all the swelling goes down and the scar fades. They will probably use staples, which looks a little weird when you wake up. There will also be drains in place. Jack is now 16 months post the surgery and you can barely notice the scar now. You'd have to be right up on his neck and seriously if someone is that rude...go to Physical therapy quickly after surgery for lympatic drainage and exercises to prevent wooden neck. The PT also taught Jack external massage techniques to move the fluid. He said to tell you this was really critical and helped him.
There are people here that had part of their tongue removed and are survivors. For that you will need speech therapy. You hang in there and stay positive.
Regards JoAnne