Is it normal to have pain in temples after lateral brow lift?

Question

I had a lateral brow lift (along with upper blepharoplasty and fat transfer to face) six days ago. I am experiencing periodic sharp pains throughout the day in my temples (primarily on my left side). Is this normal? Unfortunately, the surgeon that I went to (she is double board certified so I'm sure she reputable) did not provide much information on what to expect for this recovery. Thank you for your help.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Pain is not uncommon during recovery, i would advice you visit or contact your plastic surgeon about this concern.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest that you call the office of your board certified facial plastic surgeon and medical team to discuss your recovery expectations and healing progress.
Best wishes,

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Pain after 6 days is not the rule but not unusual, and in my experience with several hundred temporal brow lifts has never been prolonged. I would check with your surgeon.

Benjamin C. Paul, MD · Answer

It is very possible to have sharp pain after a temple lift - though this is technique dependent. Sharp pain is especially common if your surgeon placed sutures into your temporalis muscle or deep temporal fascia. The pain is often elicited with chewing. Assuming dissolving sutures are placed, this will go away when the swelling subsides for some and when the suture dissolves for most.  Likely, your  pain symptoms will resolve soon but the best person to answer this question is your surgeon since she performed the procedure and knows exactly what was done and what to expect. Best of luck from NYC.

Is it normal to have pain in temples after lateral brow lift?

Answers (4)