Swelling and red lines after multiple procedures

I had Facelift,Cheek Lift, Lip Lift, Blepharoplasty, and Rhinoplasty 5 months ago. Have normal numbness around ears and jawbone. Happy with results except right salivary gland very swollen and slight red line along jawbone. Very visible from right side profile, left gland not swollen. Doctor said nothing to do but remove it and he didn't recommend it. Said visible because he pulled platysma muscle back. Said it was like this before, but I know my body pretty well and it wasn't. Just in case it's relevant, nose runs all the time since surgery. Using cortisone on incisions, fluticasone propionate for nose. Any recommendations?

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right profile view swollen gland, left side not swollen
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9 answers to “Swelling and red lines after...”

A: Botox may work for swollen gland

Corey S. Maas, MD

The mechanism of action of Botox, blocking the release of the same neurotransmitter that stimulates gland secretion, can make Botox (or now Dysport) an option for treating swollen parotid glands. You should ask your doctor to consider this treatment if the swelling persists.

A: Gland removal is not recommended

William Portuese, MD

The swelling in the neck is from the submaxillary gland and is a very difficult problem to address if it is at the time of a facelift. By removing the gland, this can make the mouth dry, which can lead to cavities, and so it is not recommended to do so. There is also inflammation, infections in that gland,... more

A: You need to see a facelft specialist.

Toby G. Mayer, MD

 The swelling needs to be investigated now. Get another opinion from a facelift specialist. You need to know if you have an infection, a saliva fistula, etc. 

A: Post Operative Healing

Trevor M. Born, MD

Dear Young at Heart, You have multiple symptoms which are a little long after your procedures.  Return to your Doctor for a follow up exam and possible investigations. With Warm Regards, Trevor M Born MD

A: Prominent Salivary gland after Rhytidectomy

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Submandibular glands that were not or barely visible before surgery may become more visible after the skin is tightened. Some surgeons advise removal of the gland or partial reduction but this can add additional complexity and risk to the procedure Think about a baseball under your bed sheets. If they are... more

A: A swollen, red salivary gland could be infected

Eric M. Joseph, MD

Dear Young at Heart, Is the gland painful? Does it hurt or get larger when you eat food? Is there a foul taste from under your tongue? How long after the surgery did you notice this? The redness, and asymmetry could mean infection that would clear with a course of appropriate antibiotics. Runny nose after... more

A: You need another opinion with a board certified plastic surgeon.

George J. Beraka, MD

Hi   You definitely need another opinion. 1)  The swelling under your right jawline is much too big to just be a more noticeable salivary gland after a facelift. 2) A continually runny nose after a rhinoplasty can be a serious symptom. In Manhattan, I would investigate these two problems... more

A: Second opinion

Robin T.W. Yuan, MD

Your surgeon could very well be correct. It could be a prolapsed gland that becomes more evident as the loose tissue surrounding is tightened. I am not sure I understand about the red line. In any case, it sounds as if your surgeon is reputable and did a good job with all of your procedures. If you are unsure,... more

A: Salivary Gland Swelling after Facelift

Frank P. Fechner, MD

There are 2 pairs of salivary glands that could be involved with a facelift: parotid gland (in front of ear and around earlobe) and submandibular gland (below jawbone within neck). Most likely, you are referring to the submandibular gland. It is true that this gland can become more noticable after a face and... more

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