Very tight mask like feeling six months after facelift, what can I do? (photo)

Question

At 66 I had face , neck, brow and lower eyelid surgery, six months ago. From mid cheek out to ears from eyes to under chin feels like a tight stiff mask under my skin. This does not seem to be decreasing at all, I am very concerned. The only relief is when I am sleeping, my skin is not tight and when my face is looking down it feels like it is dropping. Overseas proceedure so impossible to see Dr.

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

Thank you for your picture and question.  As the SMAS muscle is targeted tightness after a facelift is common.  The time this feeling takes to diminish will vary on patients.  It can sometimes take up to a 1 year, however, massaging the area can help to soften.  Please have regular follow ups with your surgeon to express your concern so you can follow their protocol.  All The Best

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

Feelings of the face being tight or over-pulled are uncommon 6 months after surgery, especially in someone who doesn't outwardly show it, as in your case.  Most likely it is the thin layer of muscle (SMAS) immediately under the skin that is causing the feeling...or it could simply be the nerve regeneration that occurs after facelifts.  Either way, it will almost certainly pass over a maximum of 6 more months.  This is very unusual but persistence beyond 6-12 months is very rare.  Best of luck.

Very tight mask like feeling six months after facelift, what can I do? (photo)

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Very tight mask like feeling six months after facelift, what can I do? (photo)

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