I used to use the rolled up towel, then made my own neck roll, but after a while that wasn't enough either. I recently broke down and bought the most expensive pillow I've ever purchased and held my breath that it would help - it worked like a charm!!! It's called a Therapeutica pillow:
goo.gl/nug7w3 I can sleep pretty comfortably on either side or on my back with this pillow.
Best of luck with your appt tomorrow!! Be sure to let us know how it goes!
Silly that your doc thought all those things would clear up with that surgery.