Skin discoloration after a MAC facelift

I had a mid-face lift in Argentina last year and they used the "MAC" or "MC" procedure. For almost 1 year I had discolorations that ran along both sides of my cheeks and down to just under my chin -- I imagine this is the path of the "purse stitches" used.

Mid-way through this healing period I went to another plastic surgeon, and he recommended a retinol topical cream -- but I can still see the line of the stitches.

Is there any way to correct his.  What should I do from here?  I will NEVER go offshore for another surgery -- but that is a whole separate story!

3 answers to “Skin discoloration after a MAC facelift”

A: Many reasons can lead to skin discoloration after facelift

Philip Young, MD
By Philip Young, MD - Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon

There are many reasons that can lead to skin discoloration after a facelift. Inflammation can cause increased blood vessel formation, which can lead to a red or bluish discoloration depending on the level of the vessel and whether they're due to an arterial or venous source. Other reasons include iron deposits... more

A: Topical treatments can help

Manish H. Shah, MD
By Manish H. Shah, MD - Denver Plastic Surgeon

When you lift the skin of the face for a facelift of any kind two things happen: The ability of the skin to remove blood worsens temporarily (venous congestion)  Blood that remains behind may leave heme (iron) pigment behind, staining the skin Over time, venous congestion will correct itself as the body... more

A: Your question is complex

Brent Moelleken, MD
By Brent Moelleken, MD - Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

The good news is that your surgery has had sufficiently long so that your results are likely to be permanent.  That means that you are probably a candidate now for any revision procedures. The solution to your problem depends on what exactly is going on. In order to determine what your next step is, you... more

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