I'm 6 weeks post op from a lower facelift with bumps, numbness and swelling. Will ultrasound reduce this swelling?

Question

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Your 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). When the skin is separated from the underlying tissues during surgery, small sensory #nerves are cut. Varying degrees of numbness will be present after surgery and will improve gradually as the nerves reconnect to the skin. This process can take from 2-6 months for face, neck and cheeks, and to 9-12 months for the forehead and scalp. Muscle weakness may also be present around the mouth especially if liposuction is used. This typically recovers fully in the months after surgery. 
As the nerves regenerate, the itching, burning, tingling and shooting #sensations will occur. Ice, moisturizers and gentle #massaging are helpful during this phase of the #healing process. Frequently there is a tight feeling in the neck, jawline and cheek after a facelift. During surgery, not only the skin but the underlying muscles are tightened to create a better and longer lasting result. Additionally, the #swelling will move downward in the first week and the neck will feel even tighter. Do not be alarmed: the sensation will decrease during the first month. 
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.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.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It's too soon to tell what your final results will be. You have swelling and it can take up to 6 months to have your final results with a neck lift and face lift results. I recommend following up with your Doctor for a formal evaluation and after care recommendations. Yes, I recommend a combination approach with ultherapy combined with thermage/venus legacy to improve swelling. Best, Dr. Emer

Kara K. Criswell, MD, FACS · Answer

Facelift patients heal at very different ratesdepending on surgical technique, patient age and other medical conditions, andother procedures performed at the same time, like fat grafting.  Numbnesscan take several weeks or months to completely resolve.  We use ultrasonicmassage frequently with our patients to help withlymphatic drainage.  It can help with increasing flood flow to the healingtissues and smoothing irregular areas of swelling.  Most patients enjoythe treatment and notice decreased edema right after the massage.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

It is best to discuss your concerns with your PS. Massage, deep lymphatic massage and ultrasound are all useful but best to take advice.

Tom D. Wang, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, ultrasound may help reduce the swelling but ultimately the healing process will require up to 6-8 months of time in order for the bumps, numbness nad swelling to subside.  Most of my clients find that their healing has stabilized by about 3-4 months after surgery and they look great at that point.  Hope this helps!

I'm 6 weeks post op from a lower facelift with bumps, numbness and swelling. Will ultrasound reduce this swelling?

Answers (6)

Answer: Irr

Answer: Irr

Answer: 'm 6 weeks post op

Answer: 'm 6 weeks post op

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lower Facelift

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

I'm 6 weeks post op from a lower facelift with bumps, numbness and swelling. Will ultrasound reduce this swelling?

Answers (6)

Answer: Irr

Answer: Irr

Answer: 'm 6 weeks post op

Answer: 'm 6 weeks post op

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lower Facelift

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