Smile affected for how long after depressor septi muscle cut? (Photos)

Question

I had a facelift three weeks ago as well as having my depressor septi muscle cut to help prevent my nose from pointing downward when I smiled. How long will it take to get my smile back? Should I massage the area above my lip to help the swelling go down? I am taking Bromelain. Also, do I look like a candidate for a lip lift now? Is it advisable to get fillers in top lip at this point?

Mark Karolak, DO, FAOCO · Answer

At 3 weeks postop, it is too early to judge the final result.  Healing takes time.  Continue to follow up with your surgeon as planned and re-evaluate at 3 and 6 months.

David Gilpin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I am sorry that you are having this concern after surgery.  However, it appears that your are healing well, thus far.  At 3 weeks post-operatively, you most likely still have quite a bit of swelling in the face and lip.  This can certainly make it much harder to smile, and can change the normal appearance of your smile.  I would continue to wait for all swelling to subside, which can take several months. Be sure to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  He/she is the only one who knows exactly what happened during your surgery.  I would not advise undergoing any more procedures at this point. I hope that this helps!-David Gilpin

David A. Sherris, MD · Answer

You look like you are healing well and look lovely. I would let things settle down for at least 6 months before considering lip lift. The lip function should improve over the next few months.  Best wishes in your healing.

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

This should improve with time as your swelling subsides. Be patient. It can take quite a few months. And don't do anything else until at least 6 months post op. You want everything to settle into your final results before considering another cosmetic procedure, even one that is non-surgical.

Robert H. Woods, MD · Answer

This should get better in six to eight weeks. Massage can help, but it really is just up to mother nature at this point. I would not recommend fillers or a tip plasty. Give this plenty of time to settle and make sure that anything further you have done is not going to start looking unnatural.

Smile affected for how long after depressor septi muscle cut? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Smile affected by surgery

Answer: Smile affected by surgery

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Smile affected for how long after depressor septi muscle cut? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Smile affected by surgery

Answer: Smile affected by surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.