Does this look normal? I have lumps, bumps and ridges 30 days post neck lift (Photo)

 There are many tools that we use in our practice for managing scars after facelifting and neck lifting. In addition to a home treatment program for incisions and scars, I frequently see my patients want to month for Cortizone injections and in some cases even laser treatments. Over time, using these techniques, we can truly improve the prince of these incisions so that in most cases they are barely visible. Good luck. 

It common to have these bumps persist after surgery, especially if you had swelling after the surgery. Give it time, massage the area and follow up with your surgeon. He/she will be able to discuss options for you to help improve the scar and the skin bumps will settle over the next few months. 

It is not uncommon to be experiencing some #lumps four months post-op. Recovery from a neck and facelifts do vary per person. This process can take from 2-6 months for face, neck and cheeks. Muscle weakness may also be present around the mouth especially if liposuction is used. Some degree of firmness or lumpiness under the skin is normal after surgery and will resolve with time. Local #massage of the areas may accelerate the resolution of this problem, which normally takes 2-4 months to disappear completely. It is during this time that the rejuvenating effects of the facelift will become apparent and the real result will be seen. The #scars “mature” within six to twelve months from the surgery date. 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.

I completely understand your concern with the lumpiness and swelling. It can make you feel uncomfortable in your skin despite your desire to feel as you look when electing to receive cosmetic surgery. I suggest you schedule a follow-up appointment with the surgeon who performed your surgery so that you can relay your concerns to the professional who knows the technique they utilized and your specific health profile. Please follow your surgeon's instructions as diligently as possible to improve your outcome.

Hello.  Majority of swelling and bruising should be mostly resolved by 30 days.  However, every patient heals differently and it is still best to be patient.  I recommend regular follow up visits to your surgeon to make sure he is satisfied with your healing.  There may be some interventions he can discuss to help in your recovery.  Take care.

Healing after a facelift and the initial look of the incisions can sometimes be frightening. They look long, red and the tissues underneath can be lumpy. Most of the time, these issues resolve themselves within a year.Always keep in mind that it takes an entire year for the body to completely heal from surgery.  Your tissues have been repositioned to correct some of the changes that take place from aging, so it will take time for your body to readjust.  Best of luck!Dr. E

Ask your doctor if this is the way his/her facelifts "typically" heal, and if any revisions might be anticipated.

Scar maturation takes time and patience is critical.  It is very common for incisions to be thickened and irregular 30 days after surgery.  It takes some months for this to resolve.  You should make an appointment to see your surgeon to discuss your concerns.  He may feel that reassurance is all you need;  alternatively he may wish to recommend treatment.  I'm glad that you are happy with the appearance of your neck lift.  

Thanks for the question. It does seem like there is some irregularity. You mentioned that you are still swollen, so this is the most likely reason for these issues. It would still be a good idea to show these to your surgeon, as it may be something that could be injected with steroids to help them disappear sooner. Until them, I would recommend a gentle message and pressure over these bumps. Good luck!

The lumpiness, swelling, numbness, itching and hardness after a surgery like you had typically persists at least 6-8 weeks after the surgery then slowly goes away. Best wishes, Dean Vistnes.