10 Months Post Facelift. Still Have Depressions on Lower Face. Similiar to SMAS Facelift That Was Performed? (photo)

Some differences in the recovery and healing between sides of the face are common after facelift. However, after 10 months, it generally will be evening out. I tell all of my patients to do gentle massage and warm compresses. There are various hand-held devices (massagers, ultrasound, etc.) marketed for swelling reduction. Some of these will help, others will not. However, just using your hand and a little lotion is equally effective. Lastly, for persistent swelling or a small ball of scar tissue ("pea"), injections of a steroid can be helpful. For depressions, fillers or fat grafts are helpful -- though I would recommend waiting until 1 year.

Generally speaking, it can take 6 to 12 months to completely heal after a facelift procedure. I would strongly recommend speaking with your surgeon or his/her clinical team to discuss your concerns further.

Contour irregularities following facelfit surgery are not uncommon.  In the early postop period they are usually related to tissue edema and swelling and improve as the swelling works its way out.  After 6 months or so, any additional improvement will be minimal.  Permanent irregularities are the result of deep soft tissue bunching or overlap.  These can be improved with measures such as steroid injections into the prominent areas, micro-liposuction or micro-fat grafting.

Mario J. Imola.  MD, DDS, FRCSC, FACS.