Is bruising normal after 7 weeks post-op?

Question

I am 7 weeks post lower face/neck lift. The swelling is much better but I still have a bruise on one side of my face that just seems to never get better or go away? Is this normal? am a person with very fair skin that bruises easily so I knew I would bruise - it just seems to be in one major area that it isn't going away.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

The 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). 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.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

The simple answer is that it is rare, but possible to have bruising 7 weeks after a facelift.  Across a spectrum of patients, healing follows the Bell Curve.  Some heal very quickly, others very slowly, and the majority of patients somewhere in the middle.  Patients with a higher propensity for bruising tend to have a longer period of discoloration.  I would recommend avoiding NSAIDS, fish oil, extra vitamin E, herbal supplements, and green tea until after your bruising has completely subsided.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

Bruising after a face/neck lift is not uncommon and the time can vary in regards to how long it lasts.  Sometimes it may last just a few days, but sometimes it can last several weeks.  Normally, there should be improvement over time however.  If you feel that your bruising is not improving 7 weeks after your procedure, I would contact your surgeon to be evaluated.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Every patient heals at a different rate.  I would not say it is common to have bruising 7 weeks post op, but it can happen in rare cases.  Discuss the medications you take with your surgeon, as well as your diet at your exam.  Best wishes!

Is bruising normal after 7 weeks post-op?

Answers (4)

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