Strange Sensations 4 Months After Facelift. Could These Be Paresthesias?

Thank you for your question. You are correct that the strange sensations are Paresthesias.

The numbness you have is a sign that the Greater Auricular Nerve was affected during Facelift Surgery.

Paresthesias are a good sign that the nerves are healing, if the nerve was permanently damaged you would be totally numb.

Paresthesias can last months as the nerves heal. Warm soaks and gentle massage can help.

If they become severe and troubling there are medications that can help, but you will likely need to see a Neurologist for treatment.

   Paresthesias, warmness and tingling, 4 months after facelift indicate regeneration of nerve tissue.  This process may take 18 months or so.

Numbness following a facelift may be caused by nerve damage. A facelift can result in nerve damage that is temporary or permanent.    
Nerve damage from a facelift can result in the following side effects:

 

1) Numbness of the face
2) Difficulty making certain facial expressions
3) Ear numbness
4) Drooping of facial features (mouth or cheek)


In general, most temporary nerve damage that occurs from a facelift will be resolve in anywhere from 6 months to a year. It may take longer for a complete recovery, but it depends on the patient and the circumstances of the issue. I would recommend speaking with your surgeon and getting his or her opinion on the issue you are experiencing. Thank you and I hope this helps.