14 weeks post face lift and neck lift - swelling under ear and lymph node and submandibular ptosis. (photos)

Question

Post-op facelift/ necklift 14 months. few days ago discomfort under left ear. By end of day whole left side swollen under the jaw line.Past 3 days bad. After surgery not happy with left side.PS said there was nothing he could because gland was low, although the right side looks and feels fine. No toothache or ear ache. Y would this happen now, what can be done.hate the way I look on the left side normally cause of the jutting out. now it is uncomfortable. Should I see primary care dr?

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

A revision to address the excess fullness can be done.  There are different options other than addressing the submandibular gland directly.  SMAS and platysmal tightening are usually sufficient to address this.

James Bonaparte, MD, MSc, FRCSC · Answer

Hello, Thanks for your question. Its always difficult to know why this is happening, but given the time since surgery, its best to see your primary care physician and your surgeon. Dr Bonaparte

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

This swelling could be an infection or blockage of the salivary gland 'parotid'. You should see your primary to rule this out.RegardsDr. J

Jeffrey R. Raval, MD, FACS, MBA · Answer

It is a little hard to see from the photo, but it sounds like you could be facing infection. I would get in contact with your physician for a follow-up.

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear chloetinaThank you for your question and photo! It is difficult to discern from your photo - what is happening.  Please follow up with your surgeon - as they can best manage your concerns.With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Summit Kundaria, MD · Answer

chloe tina,
Thanks for the question and picture.  I think you need to see your surgeon, and sooner than later.  This swelling is in the area of your parotid gland and can represent a collection of saliva (though this far after surgery would be very rare), fluid (serum), or infection of the gland (parotitis), which can be distinguished from each other and treated after a physical exam.  As your surgeon that did your facelift is most familiar with the surgery that was done, it is preferable to see them.  Good luck!

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

You need to make an appointment to see your surgeon and have this checked out in person. It could be an infection. Or a blockage. Neither of which is something that you want to ignore.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Best to obtain a sub cutaneous scan to see if sub mandibular gland is anatomically the issue. Most likely re operation with aggressive muscle realignment is needed or even partial gland removal.

Robert Brueck, MD · Answer

Since it appears the area in question is by your submandibular gland you could have soem inflammation/infection there so maybe getting on to an antibiotic may help.

Juris Bunkis, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

It is difficult to say much based on your photos.   It is not normal to have pain under your ear 14 months later.    I would find a doctor who is experienced in facelifting procedures and have all of your questions answered, have anything you dislike fixed!

14 weeks post face lift and neck lift - swelling under ear and lymph node and submandibular ptosis. (photos)

Answers (13)