Is it normal to have trouble opening mouth after deep plane facelift?

Question

I am 3 1/2 weeks post Deep Plane Facelift. Still having lots of swelling and numbing in face and neck. I still can only open my mouth minimally. Is this normal? I honestly had no idea it would be this bad. I look like an alien. Is there hope

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I do a composite facelift and difficulty opening the jaw has not been an issue in my experience. There are several things that could contribute to this. I think visiting your surgeon and being examined would be the best thing. It's important that the significant swelling is not a fluid collection such as serum or blood that can be drained.

Lesley A. Rabach, MD · Answer

I recommend consulting with your surgeon to discuss this issue. He/she may have specific recommendations to speed up recovery or insights into details from your surgery that may explain these symptoms.

Douglas M. Stevens, MD · Answer

I have not had this particular issue come up with my patients.  It is worth a trip in to the office to let your surgeon take a look and make sure everything is ok.

Is it normal to have trouble opening mouth after deep plane facelift?

Answers (3)