Lack of Mobility In Jaw Area After SMAS Facelift? What To Do?

asked 8 months ago by SO in Oregon in Gold Hill, OR
Latest answer by Scott Trimas, MD
Question viewed 255 times
Tags: jaw, 3 weeks post-op, frozen, movement, options

SMAS facelift 21 days ago. Lower jaw is very immobile, stays open when I sleep, difficult making certain sounds (f, b, p), trouble keeping food (dry) from coming out sides of mouth. If I press forward at the jawline near my ear, it relaxes the tension enough that speaking is a little easier. Will this get better? Also, feels like a very tight chin strap wrapped around my jaw that is hard to relax, kind of aches.

5 answers to Lack of Mobility In Jaw Area After SMAS Facelift? What To Do?

Jaw tightness after facelift

It is impossible to comment based on your photos and without examining you. You should return to your surgeon to discuss your concerns. In the meantime I would massage your jaw area and do range of motion several times a day by turning your head side to side and up and down and moving your mouth open widely and from side to side. Tissues tight from a facelift usually loosen up after a few weeks.

Marialyn Sardo, MD
La Jolla Plastic Surgeon

Face lift

I have seen your pictures on other site. My answer stands. The pictures are not good because of possible animation. Need better pictures. How ever you have a major problem according to the present pictures. Wait for three months and seek a BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON (AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY). You may need a new full face lift at least.

Samir Shureih, MD
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon

Facelift problems

I am not sure if you are trying to animate in your photos but the look is very unusual in my opinion and nothing I have seen before. It looks like too much pull was placed on the SMAS. Maybe this will relax with time and massage but I'd check back with your doctor and see what they say about this .

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS
Seattle Plastic Surgeon

Jaw mobility issues three weeks after a facelift

Sometimes sutures and pulls in certain areas can affect jaw movement for up to six weeks. These symptoms typically resolve over time and your should continue to see increased movement. I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Good luck.

Scott Trimas, MD
Jacksonville Facial Plastic Surgeon

Unusual Face Lift

You will need an examination and discussion with your surgeon. Your photos show a very odd appearing submental area. Whether this resolves depends on the type of facelift. See your surgeon to decide on a treatment plan.

Jacob Freiman, MD
Miami Beach Plastic Surgeon

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