Hi a neck dissection actually isn't too bad they cut the nerves so the pain is minimal - you look like hell but it feels ok because you are numb. I gave up my pain meds day two - I wasn't in pain and they messed with my sleep. I had a tongue graft too so I was out - in 10 days for good behavior - I had two drains removed day 2 and after that it was my tongue that took the most time to heal.
He will have shoulder and arm issues after and will need physio to reclaim and improve movement - mine is about 98-99 % normal now.

@paul - that crap will kill you faster than cancer... (Big Mac!!! Ack!)

So glad your hubby is doing better!