Does scar tissue ALWAYS soften up with the passage of time? My neck stills feels very stiff and tight at 7 months.

Scars can take, sometimes, a year, or even two years to fully mature and soften. So, I would advise trying your best to be patient, frequent massage, gentle heating, and more massage. In time, this should slowly resolve. Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

The healing process can vary from patient to patient.  Some patients are completely healed and their scars are soft in a year and others take two years to get their maximum result or even longer.Other things can make your neck tight or stiff so stay in touch with your surgeon as you progress, to be sure that you are on track.

I would never counsel a patient that they should heal within 3 months of surgery for any procedure. The body takes a full year for forming a scar and having it mature.  You are more than half way through this process.I agree wth your surgeon. I would evaluate the result of surgery at one year. In the meantime, massages as well as regular physical therapy can help alleviate the tightness you feel.Good luck!Dr. E