It has been 8 months (Dec 2025) since tongue only operation for Adenocarcinoma where 1.4 cm was removed. Hearing here what some others are experiencing indicates I show be pleased. 59 neck lymph nodes removed, all negative, plus 30 radiation sessions (no chemo) left me with severe lymphedema of head, neck, upper chest, left shoulder. I can now eat about 70% of what I wants but slowly. Twice as long. Food uncontrollably wants to collect in corners of mouth which I manually remove. Gained 80% ability to swallow— but some problems. Cannot feel things like pills in mouth. Taste is about 30% of what it was. Compression shirt garments about 70% of time. Occasionally wear neck compression brace. Twice a day Flexitouch which helps a lot—is great. LDT —-25 sessions and that was great because she is highly trained in Head and Neck Lymphedema and 20 years experience in H&N. Good luck to you. My understanding for me is it does not get better at this point and the objective is to remain constant and not get worse.