Is it normal to still have 15-20% swelling in lower cheeks/jowls 11 months after facelift, necklift, browlift and fat grafts?

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.

It is highly unusual for patients to have swelling 11 months after facial surgery. I would recommend that you take some pictures and have a discussion with your surgeon.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Facial Rejuvenation SpecialistQuintessa Aesthetic Centers

Thank you for your question.  I am sorry to hear about your prolonged swelling.  While swelling at 11 months is possible, it is not the norm with most face-lift patients but the exception.  Unfortunately, it is often difficult to determine the exact cause of the swelling but certain medical situations can exacerbate the situation. I would recommend keeping a careful log of supplements, medications, activities and try to figure out if there are any situations that my improve or worsen your condition.  I would also recommend discussing this issue further with your surgeon.  He/She would definitely be interested in helping you to address this issue until it resolves.  The good news is that eventually the swelling subsides as the tissues heal themselves.  Best wishes on your recovery.