My "Wattle" has diminished a lot over the last year to the point that I don't pay much attention to what's left of it (For the most part). It seems to protrude more in the morning and when it is cold and/or damp out. I joke with my wife and Doctors about being a better weatherman than some on TV!! LOL
The massage therapy does help a lot, but as my therapist explained (And RO confirmed) the fluids have nowhere to go so they sit, making the massage a short term fix as a rule!!
As for the pain, that's weird what you're describing. Mine feels irritated and tight sometimes, but I wouldn't classify it as "painful". I would be asking a lot of questions about that!
Best Regards,
Steve

SCC right side BOT/FOM; DX 1-25-06; Neck dissection/25% of tongue removed 2-17-06. Stage 2 Recurrence 7-06: IMRTX35 & 3X Cisplatin ended 10-18-06. Tumor found 03/18/13; Partial Glossectomy 03/28/13 left lateral tongue. Nov. 2014; headaches,lump on left side of throat. Radical Neck Dissection 12-17-14; Tumor into nerves/jugular; Surgery successful, IMRTX30 & 7X Erbotux. Scan 06-03-15; NED! 06-02-16; Mets to left Humerus bone and lesion on lungs-here We go again! Never, Ever Give Up!

**** PASSED AWAY 10/8/16 ****