Can facelift swelling recur after it's healed? (Photos)

Question

I got a facelift 9 weeks ago. Swelling is almost completely gone. I noticed swelling on the inside of my mouth before I went to sleep on Sat 6th. I woke up on Sun 4-7-2019 with my whole face swollen, looking like I have an abcess, which I don't because I have dentures. I simply played cards with friends on Sat, had a couple of drinks then went home. It's Monday and the swelling is still here. I didn't drink or eat anything unusual and I'm not allergic to anything. What could cause swelling?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and photos. You are still pretty early in the recovery process after a facelift, so swelling can be expected during this time. Activity and alcohol consumption may increase swelling temporarily as well. I recommend you schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon for an in-person assessment to ensure your recovery is proceeding normally. This should also put your concerns to rest. Best wishes for a speedy and successful recovery!

Michael Boggess, MD · Answer

Hello.  Thank you for your question.  The healing process after facelift actually takes several months, during which time there may be some residual fluctuating swelling.  Certainly increasing activity, drinking alcohol, or eating a salty diet may exacerbate the swelling somewhat.  However, it seems a little unusual to see a dramatic increase in swelling more than a couple of months out from surgery.  For that reason, I would suggest that you communicate with your primary surgeon and make him aware of this change, so that he/she can evaluate you in person to make certain that everything is healing as expected.  I wish you the best in your recovery.

Sean T. Lille, MD · Answer

It’s not unusual to have swelling following a facelift up to 6 to 9 months. Swelling often occurs in cycles after the initial three month period. This commonly occurs following physical activities.Stabilization  usually occurs after nine months to a year subsequent from surgery. You are still very early in the postoperative recovery phase but seeing your plastic surgeon for assurance will be a great idea.

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is not likely for a lot of swelling to recur however increasing the amount of activity such as exercise, alcohol or being dehydrated can increase swelling.  It is always good to notify your surgeon.  All The Best

Frank Agullo, MD · Answer

Facial swelling can recur after a facelift. This often happens when increasing the amount of activity. You should notify your surgeon regardless.

Can facelift swelling recur after it's healed? (Photos)

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Answer: Increased swelling after 9 weeks

Answer: Can facelift swelling recur after it's healed?

Answer: Can facelift swelling recur after it's healed?

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Can facelift swelling recur after it's healed? (Photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Increased swelling after 9 weeks

Answer: Increased swelling after 9 weeks

Answer: Can facelift swelling recur after it's healed?

Answer: Can facelift swelling recur after it's healed?

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

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