Tired of Wattle and Jowls!

Oddly enough, weeks 2 & 3 have been more challenging than the first 7 days after surgery. New soreness under my chin and along my jawline developed but has lessened in the last few days. Dr H has assured me that based on my updated photos, all is progressing as expected. My incisions are healing well, though still a bit scabby under and behind the ears. I wear Medipac tape 24/7 [except when taking photos] and have let scabs naturally peal off, rather than pick at them. It looks like scarring with be minimal. Swelling and bruising are no longer a problem. I have a lot of flexibility over my time, so haven't faced going back to a demanding job or a rigorous schedule.
My suggestion to those looking ahead ~ plan for and give yourself time to heal, at your pace. Being a very active person, I figured I’d be back to my normal routine including 45-60 min high intensity exercise 5 days a week around a month after surgery. I was not mentally prepared for the extended, months long physical recovery I may realistically face. At first I was disheartened by this possibility, but now acknowledge the blessing of having down time as the holidays and year-end approaches. I am walking 1-2 miles on flat ground and not having any difficulty with that. I am an avid cyclist and would love to get back on my bike soon. Will check with Dr H before pursuing anything as rigorous.
Dr. Harley and his staff have been unbelievably supportive throughout this process, including responding to emails very quickly after hours. I highly recommend him not only for his skill as a surgeon but also because his actions illustrate that he truly cares about his patients. He could not have a better, more compassionate team supporting him. I interacted most with Juanita and she is a real blessing.
I will continue to post as my recovery progresses. I can't imagine this journey without the RS community, where I've found reviews, helpful suggestions and much needed support. Thanks to every one who has shared!

My first week of recovery went pretty smoothly. The second week has turned out to be a little more challenging. After having the stitches out on Day 8, I rested and iced the rest of the day. The next day [yesterday] we drove 1000 miles home, deciding to take a slightly longer route to avoid two major metro areas. Unfortunately this highway route included quite a few neglected areas with bumpy patches of road. About 2-3 hours into the drive, I was starting to feel quite uncomfortable in spite of continuing to ice and taking acetaminophen two at a time. I was able to drive for about 3 hours but that was it. By about the 8th hour of the 16 hour trip, I was in severe pain, mostly emanating from my neck and jawline, areas previously tender but never really focal points for pain during the first week after surgery. Each bump or sudden movement sent a jolt through my neck and jaw ~ I couldn't even swallow for a while. To get through the trip, I had to take one of the pain pills left from the surgery, knowing I wouldn't be able to stand being in the car for the rest of the time without one. When we arrived home, a look in the mirror revealed the swollen alien look had returned, in addition to the new pain along my jawline and neck. I have continued to ice and rest today. I noticed I've developed a small lump along my jawline, in addition to the swelling and am hopeful it will disappear as time goes on. My neck is hot, swollen on the sides and still very sore, though not as painful as yesterday. I am eating soft foods [blueberries and pineapple] and taking acetaminophen and icing for the pain. Still sleeping in a recliner and hoping tomorrow brings more relief from the neck pain and swelling. My experience of the last couple day has reinforced what others have said ~ recovery from surgery is a process with ups and downs. I am still excited about the changes I see from the BL, but have come to the realization that my recovery will continue for quite some time. Swelling and discomfort may be with me longer than I originally anticipated. I am sharing this in hopes that it is helpful to anyone else on their journey who may be temporarily discouraged or going through an extended healing process. Also, if you have a choice, don't try to drive a ridiculous distance in one day a week after surgery! A special thanks to those who continue to share all of their experiences ~ when the going is good and when it gets rough. It has helped me understand and accept the normalcy of mine.

I've been taking it easy the last few days, napping, reading and keeping up with the supplements. Also, I spent much of yesterday icing my neck because it was sore and having the gel pack on it felt really good. I haven't noticed any bruising and the swelling seems to be dissipating. Wish I could figure out how to do a split screen photo, as I have found these very helpful in reviewing other's progress. I appreciate anyone's input on how to do this. It is a lovely fall day in Asheville so we are headed out to drive the parkway down to Smokey Mtn NP. I am just a passenger, so will be able to fully enjoy the view. Thanks again for everyone's comments and well wishes, it means so much knowing there is such a supportive community who share this journey!