Re swollowing: I'm not sure if it was due to the surgery or radiation (but probably surgery), but he will have to strengthen those various muscles in his throat. I had a swollowing therapist. (Share all his issues with your surgeon and his team. They might not ask you about all these issues, but rather wait for you to share them.) The swollow therapist will give you exercises and perhaps a device. (I had to have one that gradually stretched my mouth to open wide enough. Later I had a Tongue-o-meter that helped strengthen my tongue. Also (though you didn't mention this,) eat moist foods and supplement with liquids when eating.