Hi, It's been 2 weeks since my husband John had the modified rad. neck dissection done. And as you all have mentioned - the swelling is there, and getting more pronounced. It, to me doesn't look "that bad" but John says it feels like someone put a tight "harness around his neck and is tied down". He also feels the same tight feeling in his chest where they took the drainage tubes out just this past Thursday. (that looks like 2 raised holes - almost like a "snakebite" - it's puffy and a bit swollen there). Joanna gave a good tip about doing the lateral massage which John is going to have his Physical Therapist show him how to do when he goes for his first appointment/evaluation this coming Monday. He is taking his regular pain meds (Oxycontin - 40mg, Oxycodone 2 @ 5mg each and Tylenol/Codeine #4) - his Surgeon cut him off of the Liquid Morphine, which is a big disappointment, because that really seemed to help along with the other meds. Anyways, is there anything else he/we can do to reduce the swelling in his neck/side of face/chest or does this just have to run it's course? Is this the result of the lymphatic system learning a "new route" so-to-speak? What about applying a cold compress or ice bag - do you think that would help? Any advice you can give is always appreciated. Thanks much.