What can be done for defined swollen area 9 months post facelift? (Photos)

Question

I had a facelift over 9 months ago and there is a swollen,, defined, almost cystic area on one cheek that does not seem to be going away. I have asked the surgeon about this and he says he thinks it will resolve in time ( I sent him photos of the area). Is there not anything that could be done about it?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Most things like that do resolve with time. But after a year it would be worth opening the area up and removing whatever is causing the lump

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

It is unclear what that is without feeling or performing a physical exam. Depending on the technique that was utilized, this may just be bunching of the deeper tissues. This does tend to relax but should have already by 9 months. I would recommend obtaining a second opinion from an experienced aesthetic plastic surgeon who actually does lots of facial surgery. These are all my own opinions based on the photos provided. I would recommend seeing a plastic surgeon who has great training and experience in aesthetic surgery.

George Volpe, MD · Answer

A good exam by your surgeon will help determine the cause of this contour fullness on the side of the cheek. This could be related to underlying sutures, possibly the remenants of blood under the skin causing fibrosis or other factors. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon. He or she may recommend waiting time to allow for complete healing. Usually there are actions one can take to help improve this. This could include everything from camouflaging that some fillers or fat injections or possibly even opening up the incisions to take a look at the area and determine the cause of the swelling there. Also, often with time issues like this resolved. There are many different techniques that surgeons use under the skin, some can create contour issues like this.

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hello! Thanks for the great photos and question. Options do exist. One would be careful injection of steroid with massaging after. Morpheus8 RF microneedling can provide some smoothing and tightening to the area. And, at 9 months, it could need more time. I would try the above first to see if improvements can be made. Hope this is useful!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

AS seen in posted photos I would obtain an ultrasound of area of cheek. In office ultrasound fee $500. Then if only fat or scar tissue I try dissolving injections first. Best to see in person.

What can be done for defined swollen area 9 months post facelift? (Photos)

Answers (5)

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