Swollen and Lumpy 3 Weeks Post-op Facelift/necklift - Is This Normal Healing?

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 will speed resolution of this problem, which normally takes 2-4 months to disappear completely. 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.

Although in surgery the effort is to control bleeding and subsequent swelling, fluid collection under the skin can still happen.An assessment with your surgeon would be valuable to identify whether  this is a soft  swelling which would more likely represent a seroma  (collection of plasma under the skin) or whether the swelling is firm. When the swelling is soft draining it can help speed up the recovery and reduce the risk of an infection setting up in the area. When the swelling is firm, it is debatable whether intervention is more valuable than waiting. The body has its way of dealing with the swelling and although steroid injections can help they can also produce some problems.

Thank you for your question.  I'm sorry you are having these concerns after your facelift.  At 3 weeks postoperative, you still have quite a bit of swelling.  This can take the form of lumps or bumps under the skin.  Based on your pictures, it appears that you are healing okay so far.   It can take anywhere from 6 months to a year for all the swelling after a facelift to resolve.  Be sure to contact your surgeon with these concerns and follow all postoperative instructions just as they were given to you.
I hope that this helps!

-David Gilpin

It is normal to have some swelling and small lumps and bumps in the immediate post operative period for which you are (1-6 weeks). these may represent sutures, fat grafting deposits and your body's response to the surgery. Wearing your facial garment and having lymphatic massage can help.

Thank you for your question. Every patient differs in healing. On average you are presentable in 7-10 days. It takes 1-2 years for all of the subtle healing to occur. Communicate any concerns with your surgeon. They want you to have a great result.
Best wishes.

Hopefully you have discussed this with your surgeon. Lumps can happen and usually resolve with time. You should seek consultation with a Board certified Plastic surgeon in your area. Dr. K