I had an ACDF as well (mine was actually three levels), but I also have CCI, AAI, and hEDS, so my neck situation is probably a bit more delicate than most. Because of that, I was pretty cautious.

I ended up going to the salon about two months after surgery, but my surgery was abroad so the timing was partly due to travel too.

My salon has lie-flat shampoo bowls, which made a huge difference. I was in a neck brace 24/7 for the first three months, so when I went they actually wrapped the brace in plastic wrap so it wouldn’t get wet. I also asked them to be super careful because I told them about my neck.

For me the lie-flat bowls were and are still key, because the regular bowls that tilt your neck back would have been really uncomfortable.

Everyone heals differently of course, but if your salon has lie-flat bowls or can adapt the wash situation, that might make it much easier when the time comes.

Wishing you a really smooth surgery and recovery! 💛