What should I do about complications from a Mid face/Neck lift, 4 1/2 weeks post-op? (photos)

Question

I had a bleed when drains were removed. Not drained or cleaned out. Lumps & cords are now showing up. Area under chin is a thick, firm pad. When I look at down at my desk, for example, it presses on throat, feel like I’m about to be choked. Could this worsen? Had 1 visit with a physical therapist, “<40% movement side-to-side. Raising my head up from position shown 0%. This effect my ability to work, to drive, etc. Not sure if I can wait 6-12mos. for this to heal & what type of Dr. to see.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

You have significant swelling of the upper neck still.  It appears as though there may be some scar tissue at the neck crease impeding the drainage of the edema.  You also have some irregular areas underneath this.  I would recommend some massage over the swelling to start to get the edema draining and to start softening the area.  This is going to be a slow process.  Warm compresses may help.  It is hard to tell if all of this is going to smooth out for you.  Some ibuprofen may also help as an anti-inflammatory.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

In general it is best to remove a hematoma as a complication of a facelift as soon as it is recognized. This will decrease the bruising and swelling. Most of the time the final result will be unaffected but significant scarring might require a revision. At the moment it's too early to tell.

Ivan Wayne, MD · Answer

Without looking at and touching your neck it is not possible for me to give you an exact answer. If you did have a hematoma following a facelift it is very common to see some fibrosis and contraction in the area where the hematoma occurred. This is why we like to drain them as much as possible to reduce the fibrosis that develops. When the involved area is small it will usually get better with massage and stretching exercises. In large cases re-operation is occasionally needed. Talk to your surgeon. If you are not getting answers get a second opinion.
Hope this helps.

Vartan Mardirossian, MD · Answer

The problem that you're having is related to the postoperative bleed. At this point your best bet is to apply warm compresses massage the area And going to facial aesthetician that can perform a lymphatic drain massage and sometimes local injections of Kenalog can help with resolving the scar tissue. Eventually it is going to improve significantly and in several months it will resolve completely but unfortunately you need to be patient.

Louis C. Cutolo, Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

I'm sorry to read about your
concerns. From the photos, it appears that you have prolonged swelling and
there may have been a collection of blood underneath the skin. If there was a
collection and it was not drained as you suggest, it will take time for the
body to resorb it. There will be scar tissue that will form as this process
continues, and it will take time to soften. Lymphatic drainage techniques and
ultrasound can be used in order to help quicken the process, but it will take
time and patience is necessary. Continue to get the help of a physical
therapist or other medical specialists, and best wishes in your recovery.

What should I do about complications from a Mid face/Neck lift, 4 1/2 weeks post-op? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Massage, warm compresses, lymphatic drainage

Answer: Massage, warm compresses, lymphatic drainage

Answer: Relieving Your Complications May Take Time

Answer: Relieving Your Complications May Take Time

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

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

What should I do about complications from a Mid face/Neck lift, 4 1/2 weeks post-op? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Massage, warm compresses, lymphatic drainage

Answer: Massage, warm compresses, lymphatic drainage

Answer: Relieving Your Complications May Take Time

Answer: Relieving Your Complications May Take Time

Browse related questions

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.