Headache after Neck Lift and Blepharoplasty

I had Neck Lift and Blepharoplasty, and I've been on 3 different types of antibiotics for 30 days due to a swollen stich in my lower jaw area. It's still red, swollen, and bruised. It's not necessarily painful because I am numb. Also, I never get headaches, but since the procedure, I have experienced some very painful awakening headaches at night. Is the pulling of the neck causing the headaches and will they subside soon?

Sort: Date | Helpful
10 answers to “Headache after Neck Lift and...”

A: The headaches are not related to the neck surgery

William Portuese, MD

Headaches are not related to the previous surgery that you have had. The neck lift operation is tightening neck muscles, and there can be some tenderness and soreness in the neck for the first two weeks after the surgery.

A: See Your doctor.

Richard Gentile, MD

The suture situation may be only inflammation and in my experience of over 22 years immediate suture rejection necessitating removal is rare.  The most likely cause for your headaches would be muscle contraction and spasm so if this does not resolve as you heal other causes may need to be investigated.  

A: Headaches at night

Robert M. Freund, MD

The first thing I think of when you get night symptoms is swelling. At night, you lie flat and your head swells. The tightness from the surgery doesn't help much. The swelling makes everything a little more sore or painful. Hence the headaches.  To help your issues: 1.  sleep in a recliner or on... more

A: Treat the stitch and you will likely treat the pain/headache. If not seek further workup.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

These answers are all excellent. The stitch may need to be removed at this point. Headaches have hundreds of causes and it is difficult to speculate as to the cause of yours. However, if I had to guess, I would attribute it to a tension headache due to pain induced positioning of your neck. Although you... more

A: You Need the Stitch Out

Christopher L. Hess, MD

It is a painful decision for a surgeon to take a patient back to the OR to correct a complication.  But unfortunately in your situation antibiotics aren't going to make the infection better.  The stitch has been colonized with the bacteria and the only way to resolve it is to remove the stitch. ... more

A: The stitch might need to be removed

Philip Young, MD

Pains and aches after any procedure is a natural process and sometimes the cost of being beautiful. It is almost impossible to not have these after any procedure. The question is how painful it is and if it is causing you to be in a state where you can't function well on a daily basis. The stitch might need to... more

A: It may be

Scott E. Kasden, MD

Sometimes headaches are due to muscle spasm, and so, your neck muscles may be the cause.  After 30 days, it may be time to surgically remove the foreign body to treat the infection.  It is not ideal to keep people on antibiotics for prolonged periods of time if it can be avoided. sek

A: Headache 30 days after Facelift should be investigated

Brooke R. Seckel, MD

By 30 days after a facelift and blepharoplasty, you should feel fine and not have pain. You need to be examined by your doctor and he/she needs to give you an explanation. Two issues concern me. First, the "swollen stitch in your jaw." If you have a stitch abscess it should be drained. Other possible... more

A: This doesn't sound normal

Richard P. Rand, MD

What you are describing is not within the normal bell curve of recovery.  You should contact your doctor and be re-examined to be sure everything is going along appropriately.

A: headaches after neck lit and blepharoplasty

Barry H. Dolich, MD

Although there are some reasons for headaches after the proceedures you've had,in my experience , 30 days is a long course . I would speak with your surgeon  about a focused consultation re.  your complaint. Hows your blood pressure? Have you had your eyes checked recently??

Post your question

Neck lift before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.