Nerve damage from chin liposuction?

Question

I had neck/ chin lipo 10 days ago. I am still swollen in my gland area on both sides, which I know is normal. My concern is that my lip/mouth muscles feel damaged. For example, I am not able to rinse mouthwash without it dribbling out; I am not able to bit into things (i.e. a sandwich, or hamburger) normally. The right side of my mouth does not cooperate. I also notice an issue when spitting toothpaste, I'm unable to form my lips as I did pre-surgery. Is this likely related to the swelling?

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

Liposuction can cause trauma to the nerve supplying the movement to the lower lip.  In most cases it is transient and resolves in 3 months.  RegardsDr. J

Summit Kundaria, MD · Answer

alliewoodman,
Thanks for the question.  You should see your surgeon about this, because based on the information you have provided in the question, you may have some weakness of your marginal mandibular nerve and/or mental nerve.  Based on the surgery you had, most nerve damage here will improve with time, though your surgeon knows the details of your procedure the best and will be able to advise you further.

Best Wishes,
Summit Kundaria, MD
Charlotte, NC

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi, there's no way to tell if your have never injury and the resultant muscle weakness that's associated with that type of injury.  You should contact the surgeon that did your submental liposuction for evaluation and express your concerns.
Hope this helps.

Nerve damage from chin liposuction?

Answers (3)