After a post-surgery examination in the recovery room, a friend or family member will be able to take you home for your recovery. You’ll be prescribed medications to ease any discomfort, and the compression dressings will be worn for many hours over the first six days to help your skin to tighten up around the new contours of your neck. There may be a significant amount of bruising and swelling. This should begin to fade by the third or fourth day after surgery, but it will take at least two weeks before it’s completely gone. To prevent bleeding and increased swelling, avoid extreme physical activity, including athletic activities and intercourse. After 24 hours, you are encouraged to go for light walks and strolls. Light cardio, such as an elliptical machine or spin bike on a low resistance can begin on post-operative day seven. Do not engage in any heavy cardiovascular activity (running), any activity that involves straining (weight lifting) or anything that involves bending over (yoga, pilates) for at least three weeks, unless otherwise instructed. Total healing will take up to six months, but you should be back to work and other daily activities within two to four weeks.