Hello Virginia, the sensation of a "hard" neck is common after neck dissection. Partly it is because of scar tissue, partly radiation effects and partly because alot of the softer tissue and fat is removed during the dissection. Over time this gets somewhat better and as some fatty tissue is put back there by nature. Also, the skin sometimes "sticks" to the underlying tissues and that feels different, this too gets better with time.

By all means if you feel the need to have this checked out then do so for peace of mind.

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.