I Had Facelift 2.5 Weeks Ago and Now Have a Leaking Parotid into Cheek. Recommendations?

Question

I am using pressure, taking drugs to slow saliva, and getting nourishment through a straw so as not to encourage saliva. I have had many aspirations. Any additional ideas would be greatly appreciated. 3ccs were removed two days ago. It seems as though this might be quite rare. The rest of my procedure is really terrific and I healed quickly with very minor bruising.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

After 20 years in practice and a lot of facelifts I got my first parotid fistula about 4 months ago. It was not from a deep plane facelift. It successfully stopped after about 6 weeks as I recall. I had my patient use a Scopalamine patch and adhere to a very bland diet. I don't think the straw has anything to do with it. I was quite certain that I had not injured the major duct. If that is a concern there is an X-ray test you could get. For now I would just follow your surgeon's instructions. Good luck.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Your salivary gland leak is certainly a nuisance, but this will slowly resolve. Adequate compression is difficult, and needle aspirations are necessary. Frequent follow-up with your doctor for serial aspirations should lead to less and less fluid collection. Though I have no personal experience with this, Botox has been described as helpful for facilitating resolution.

	All the best.

	Dr. Joseph

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

this is a rare occurance.  it is generally self limiting. percutanenous needle aspiration may be required and may be required more than once. pressure is also helpful.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

A salivary leak is a rare side effect but it should resolve over time.  Periodic aspirations and compression are helpful.  Follow up with your surgeon.

Ralph R. Garramone, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear you are having a problem after your facelift.  This is usually a temporary problem as the other responders have stated. There is some evidence that Botox may help this problem. I would give it a little more time.  It sounds as though you are managing and doing all of the right things.

	Thank you for your question and hang in there.  Keep in close touch with your plastic surgeon.

I Had Facelift 2.5 Weeks Ago and Now Have a Leaking Parotid into Cheek. Recommendations?

Answers (9)

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Answer: Salivary leak vs. seroma

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I Had Facelift 2.5 Weeks Ago and Now Have a Leaking Parotid into Cheek. Recommendations?

Answers (9)

Answer: Salivary leak vs. seroma

Answer: Salivary leak vs. seroma

Answer: Parotid gland leak

Answer: Parotid gland leak

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

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