Periorbital edema 26 days post-op. Is this normal?

Question

I mentioned that I had fluid filled sac's under my eyes what I failed to mention is that 26 days ago I had a facelift and fat transfer. I still want to know if the sac's can be drained? Sorry I forgot the additional information about the surgery .

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

This can be a problem but usually takes care of itself.  Occasionally, dilute steroid injections might be indicated for refractory cases but I tend to be conservative if the trend of the swelling is favorable.

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

Most likely, these areas represent malar mounts and will improve as swelling subsides. This may sometimes take up to 3 months.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

periorbital edema can sometimes last for a long time but it will eventually resolve.  Fat transfer can cause a lot of persistent swelling especially if liquefied fat (not fat cells) have not been separated away.  This should resolve with time.

James Chan, MD · Answer

It is common to get malar edema (cheek and lower eyelid bags) after a facelift.  Typically takes several weeks to sometimes even months to go away.This is not drainable.Time is the best solution.Discuss with your plastic surgeon if you have additional questions.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

I agree with Dr. Park.  I would recommend discussing this with your plastic surgeon or his/her clinical team to discuss your concerns.  Thanks

Lisa M. DiFrancesco, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You should follow up with your plastic surgeon for a formal evaluation. Good luck.

Kim Taylor, FRACS · Answer

Hi,without photos it is a little difficult to assess your issues, but it is most likely that the swelling is due to oedema (which is normal post-operatively) and is not drainable, as it is diffuse swelling.  Get your plastic surgeon to check you out and maybe start some gentle massage (in an upwards direction).  Regards

Eric A. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not uncommon to have swelling and fluid for several months after a face lift and fat tranfer. You did not mention that you had eye lid surgery, so I will assume you did not. It seems to me you have extra fluid in a location that really was not operated on, so this is just a marker that your face is swollen in general. Those little areas under the eyes that retain fluid are difficult to deal with and unfortunately can not be drained. Try to put a little pressure on them at night while you sleep to see if that helps. Otherwise you may need wait it out. Eric Weiss MD

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

Without any photos it is difficult to make any suggetions / comments.I would follow your Board Certified Plastic Surgeons post operative instructions closely. He / she will be best qualified at this time to help you through the healing phase of your surgery. Good LuckStephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

Gregory Park, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Without a photo, it will be difficult to provide you with a recommendation. Generally, fluid in the face is not a common problem after a facelift and fat transfer. Follow up with your plastic surgeon. He or she will be the best person to answer your questions and concerns. Thank you for your question. Best wishes.

Periorbital edema 26 days post-op. Is this normal?

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