Is that fibrosis after jaw surgery? How to treat it? (photos)

Question

I developed a small lump on one side of my face along with my jawline after jaw surgery. I massaged it in hopes for it to subside but it doesn't fade away. It's been more than a year. It makes my face asymmetrical as if I have a bulk on one side. This lump is different than fat, it is harder and moves a little when I touch. My doctor doesn't help unfortunately. Is there a way to remove it? Surgical or non-surgical options?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This may be scar tissue related to your jaw surgery.  You may find improvement from steroids.  They should help to soften the feel and improve the appearance.  I encourage you to see a board certified plastic surgeon for an evaluation and to discuss treatment options.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

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

Good Morning! Yes, there are options to improve this area. I would first start with steroid injections if the area feels like scar tissue. Prior to doing so, a CT scan of the neck would be a great option to evaluate the jawline. Steroid injections with massaging often does wonders to loosen scars. If there is no improvement, then exploration and excision of any scar tissue would be an option. I would visit with another surgeon to determine what may be the next best steps. Hope this is helpful!

Is that fibrosis after jaw surgery? How to treat it? (photos)

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Is that fibrosis after jaw surgery? How to treat it? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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