What can I expect afterward?

Your neck may be stiff and store for a few days, and you may experience some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding or temporary numbness. If necessary, your doctor can prescribe medication to relieve this initial discomfort.

Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection at the incision sites. Your stitches will be removed in a week to 10 days, unless they dissolve on their own. You will be fitted with a compression band to cut down on swelling and to hold your neck in its new shape until the tissues have adjusted.