It feels like a pin pricking me from the inside out after facelift. Advice?

Question

I had a facelift in February and it feels like an internal stitch is poking through my skin near my cheek and it feels like a pin pricking me from the inside out.

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

Thank you for your question.  Internal stitches can sometimes be rejected by the body therefore your body tries to spit them out.  They can work there way to the surface of the skin and you can feel them (especially if you are slim).  If it is irritating you, please do return to your surgeon, they can put a little local around the area and remove the stitch.  All The Best

Roberto E. Garcia, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I have seen this before and more than likely, this is an internal stitch that was used to secure the muscles is trying to push its way out.  Go back to your surgeon and they can easily find that end of the suture and remove it in the office under local anesthesia.  I hope that this helps.

Ali Riza Öreroglu, MD · Answer

Hi,
I believe the problem could be neuropathic. It may go away by itself, I don't think it is anything to worry about.
Dr. Ali Rıza Öreroğlu MD, FEBOPRASDouble Board Certified Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic SurgeonIstanbul - TURKEY

Raghu G. Elluru, MD · Answer

Patients often experience a variety of sensations after undergoing facelift surgery. The particular sensation you are experiencing could be from a variety of causes. It could be from nerve regeneration pain or from an internal suture. Fortunately, all of these symptoms do disappear over time. Sometimes massage in the area can reduce sensitivity.

C. Jeff Kesler, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. If you are having a poking sensation in the cheek area after a facelift, it is certainly appropriate for you to visit your surgeon and discuss this.  There may have been some type of internal sutures used to suspend facial structures.  If this is the case, this internal suture may need to be removed.  It is also possible that people have small areas of irritation and discomfort that can be alleviated with massage.  This decision will have to be made between you and your surgeon after complete examination.  I wish you all the best.

Rick Paulson, MD · Answer

In this instance, I would recommend you return to the surgeon who performed the procedure. There are many types of sutures and many variable involved. Your surgeon would know best.  Hopefully, you are happy with your facelift results this far and good luck to you

Javier Vera Cucchiaro, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Don't worry. That feeling may be caused by the internal stitches that usually reabsorbe within 6 to 8 months.
However, I advise to see your Plastic Surgeons for a checkup

It feels like a pin pricking me from the inside out after facelift. Advice?

Answers (7)

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