Glasses still too tight at temples 6 weeks after facelift? Will this resolve? (photo)

Question

My cheeks and in front of ears are fuller/ bigger from facelift, so much so that wearing glasses leaves a big indentation. Also my ears are lower. I am 6 weeks post op when most swelling should be resolved. Is this normal? It is not attractive at all.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

It takes longer than 6 weeks for all of the swelling from a facelift to subside.  Although the inflammation should be on the downward slope at this point, it may take a few more weeks for the area around your temples to "deflate".  Based on the limited photo provided, the earlobes also appear moderately swollen.  The ultimate vertical positioning of your ears will depend on the technique utilized bu the Surgeon, but should not change dramatically with SMAS based procedures.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It's very possible that you are still experiencing swelling from your #facelift procedure as you heal. The #healing process in general can take up to one month for the majority of swelling to subside, incisions to close, sutures to come out, and for bruising to completely go away. #Recovery time from a #facelift varies from person to person, but patients can generally expect to be presentable within three weeks from surgery. Patients should expect swelling, bruising, and discoloration of the skin during this phase of recovery (swelling normally goes down after 48 hours; most bruising will go away within two weeks). Some degree of firmness or #lumpiness under the skin is normal after surgery and will resolve with time. Local #massage will speed resolution of this problem, which normally takes 2-4 months to disappear completely.The marks from a facelift can easily hidden with “camouflage” make-up which you can learn how to apply.The scars from a facelift mature within six to twelve months from the surgery date. It is during this time that the rejuvenating effects of the facelift will become apparent and the real result will be seen. If you have certain concerns about the procedures and #healing process, it is recommended to call your board-certified surgeon or their medical staff and discuss those #concerns.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

This will most likely resolve as the swelling reduces and six weeks is still to early.  However, If a high SMAS was performed this will cause more fullness in this area.  Ask your PS.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Swelling can take up to a year to subside. During this time, you should restrict sodium intake and sleep on your back as much as possible. Lymphatic massage can also help.   As for swelling to be 100% gone, this really depends on the extent of surgery and your recovery rate. Once the majority of swelling goes away, residual swelling subsides very gradually and most patients don't notice when it's totally gone because it's so gradual. This can take about a year.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Swelling in the Temple after a full facelift is common. Eyeglasses may indeed be somewhat snog but this should improve as swelling subsides. This may take a number of months.

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Congratulations on a very nice result.  You certainly still have swelling of your face at 6 weeks.  It can persist for up to about 6 months but each month will be better.  Best wishes on your recovery

Glasses still too tight at temples 6 weeks after facelift? Will this resolve? (photo)

Answers (11)

Answer: A year for swelling to subside after facelift

Answer: A year for swelling to subside after facelift

Answer: As swelling decreases after a facelift eyeglasses should fit better.

Answer: As swelling decreases after a facelift eyeglasses should fit better.

Answer: Normal Swelling

Answer: Normal Swelling

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Glasses still too tight at temples 6 weeks after facelift? Will this resolve? (photo)

Answers (11)

Answer: A year for swelling to subside after facelift

Answer: A year for swelling to subside after facelift

Answer: As swelling decreases after a facelift eyeglasses should fit better.

Answer: As swelling decreases after a facelift eyeglasses should fit better.

Answer: Normal Swelling

Answer: Normal Swelling

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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.