Joanna, Just wondering - is lymphedema something that is inevitable after a surgery like this? I know there will be swelling, but does everyone have the swelling that lasts for months like that? And how often was that special massage done per day? I'm aware that my husbands neck will be somewhat mishapen after this - but the doc said it wouldn't be that severe and not even noticable unless you really stare. I am going to print out the steps to the lateral massge you mentioned - hopefully my husbands doctor will mention this too, but in any event - I'm sure this massage can only help in speeding recovery. Thanks.