Is this nerve pain on neck following neck lift permanent, can it be treated?

Question

I had a necklift 15 months ago. From the beginning I feel pain on right side of the neck all the way to the ear when I slightly get in touch with the area. Also the ear is frequently itchy, and wearing an earring is uncomfortable. Six months ago my doctor told me it passes with time, but the pain has not changed. Is this pain permanent? Can it be treated?

Ali Cetinkaya, MD · Answer

If you're still experiencing pain, sensitivity, and itching on one side of the neck extending to the ear 15 months after a neck lift, this is likely due to involvement of sensory nerves in the area. Nerves like the great auricular nerve or lesser occipital nerve, which supply sensation to the neck and ear, can be stretched, compressed, or rarely severed during surgery.
Common symptoms in such cases include:
Pain or burning with light touch
Persistent itching
Discomfort when wearing earrings
Numbness or tingling sensations
Given that it's been over a year, spontaneous resolution is less likely &mdash; but this does not mean it's permanent or untreatable.
Treatment options include:
Topical anesthetic creams (such as lidocaine)
Neuropathic pain medications (e.g., gabapentin, pregabalin)
Desensitization therapy and physical therapy
Nerve blocks or PRP injections for pain management
In rare cases, surgical nerve release or revision may be necessary
A re-evaluation by a board-certified plastic surgeon or neurologist is highly recommended. Persistent nerve-related symptoms after surgery can often be improved significantly with appropriate treatment.

Is this nerve pain on neck following neck lift permanent, can it be treated?

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Is this nerve pain on neck following neck lift permanent, can it be treated?

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Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

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