I had the same surgery on 5/28/2013. I stayed in the hospital for 24 hours and then to my daughters for 2 weeks. I slept in a recliner the 2 weeks at my daughters. My neuro-surgeon does not do neck braces. The first few days I didn't move around a lot and when I did move around I did everything very slow,
I took a shower the 3rd day after surgery, however no stitches,,my incision
was closed with glue.
It has been 1 month since my surgery, at this time I do some light house work, take my dogs on short walks. I go grocery shopping but I do take my granddaughter with me to do all the lifting.
I know everyone is different and no recovery is going to be identical. I was very unsure about the surgery and up to the last minute I wanted to back out.
My pain level is very low, and everyday I feel a little better and as of right now I feel that the surgery was a success.
God Bless you !! Annie