Hi Sammie, The "hardness" is a common post treatment observation. It is normal to have this sensation. During the neck dissection some of the underlying tissue and fat is removed. This means that the skin is now lying directly on the muscle and firmer structures of the neck as well as some scar tissue.

My guess is that they will be talking to you about radiation and possibly chemotherapy. You are welcome to ask questions here anytime. At the forum main page there is a small print "search" which if you click on you may search the past forums for specific things. If you have thought about it, we have probably had a post about it.

Take care

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.