I was diagnosed with HPV 16+cancer of base of tongue March 2023. I had TORS surgery to remove tumor and lymph nodes through right neck dissection. 2 of which had cancer. I am 58. I chose Proton vs Photon Radiation as I feel it is much less damaging. However, You will have issues with it as well. In my opinion Proton is more targeted with less side effects. However, It is a battle as insurance companies do not want to pay for Proton when Photon is 50% less costly or more. Proton is like a pencil beam hitting the target and stopping. Photon is more like a flashlight beam which travels through the target area. I had to drive an hour to Proton treatment. Alot of people drive much further. I drove myself to all 30 treatments. I am 18 months post 30 rounds of Proton Radiation to "cleanup" any cancer that may have been left behind. Today I feel like I am about 90% back to normal. I hope my story helps you in your decision. God speed.