Are these ridges and bumps normal after a MACS facelift? (Photo)

Question

I had a Macs Facelift 5 days ago to address sagging jowls. Now I have these horrible ridges and bumps under the skin. I can actually feel the sutures under the skin and see the direction they were attached. My skin is pulled unnaturally tight to my ear and it hurts to even open my mouth. My doctor says the ridges are normal and will resolve in 2 months. Is this normal or should I have the internal sutures cut and do a revision facelift at a later date?

Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question and photos. Some contour irregularities are common after any facelift, and usually resolve in 1-2 weeks. From the photos, it appears that the skin has been pulled more than usual with a MACS lift. The concept of a MACS lift is that the support is on the deeper tissues, so the skin does not need to be excessively tightened. You should follow up with your surgeon to discuss your concerns. Good luck.

Scott K. Thompson, MD · Answer

Irregularities of the skin under the area of dissection are common especially following MACS lift surgery.  These should resolve within 6-8 weeks as indicated by your surgeon.  Keep checking in with your surgeon regularly so that your progress can be monitored.  See the link for more info regarding MACS lift.  Good luck!

Juan Carlos Fuentes, MD · Answer

After a face lift there is swelling and discoloration, and it is normal to see irregularites on the area, those ridges and bumps are from the traction on the skin. The healing process is slow and takes about 2 to 3 months for the swelling to go down and the scar tissue to get soft.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Acapulco77.  Very early in your recovery to fully evaluate.  Swelling and bruising can make matters look worse than they are.  Try to stay patient and follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon.  Good luck!

Mohsen Tavoussi, MD, DO · Answer

5 days post op, you are at the very early stage of healing process which will take up to 6 or more months for it's completion. Regular follow up with your surgeon is of utmost importance.

Are these ridges and bumps normal after a MACS facelift? (Photo)

Answers (5)