Not being able to swallow after surgery is normal. I had my tongue surgery back in February and they tell me I will be lucky to learn how to swallow again by Christmas. My story is complicated by having to get even more radiation and chemo (last TX tomorrow ! )so that has set me back. The key is to have your father get SPEECH AND SWALLOWING THERAPY. I finished off 20 sessions and will be taking another 20 once my throat calms down from this radiation and I get the all clear from my surgeon,
So while it is a hassle, it does not mean anything too bad. Some people have no problems with swallowing. I had no problems the first time I went through this, it was relatively easy, and I did not even use a feeding tube, Different story the second time around. since this is your fathers second time, just be patient and make sure he gets the therapy,
Charm