Tightness in neck after necklift

Question

I am almost 5 weeks post-surgery and still have a noose-like tightness around my neck. Some who have had it said that it is a good sign that it will last longer... "Tight is good." But, how much longer do I expect to feel this tightness. It sometimes makes me panic like I'm being choked. Here's a pic after three weeks. But, it is still tight at almost 5 weeks.

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Tightness after a neck lift could last from few days/ weeks up to several months. Some patients may feel it is too tight, however, as long as they can breath normally, and they can drink and eat food normally, the tightness is ok. That subside at some point.The reason for the "tightness" is because the neck has been loose for so many years than once it gets rejuvenated, it feels tight de novo

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Tightness following a #facelift, neck lift or chin implant are not uncommon. 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 post-op. During surgery, not only the skin but the underlying muscles are tightened to create a better and longer lasting result which may cause the sensations you may be experiencing. Furthermore, the #swelling will move downward in the first week and the neck will feel even tighter. Do not be alarmed. This will decrease during the first month. Wearing a #compression garment may be suggested the first week and then nightly for up to six weeks. Local #massage of the areas may accelerate the resolution of this problem, which normally takes 2-4 months to disappear completely.Some degree of firmness or lumpiness under the skin is normal after surgery and will resolve with time. Local #massage of the areas may accelerate the resolution of this problem, which normally takes 2-4 months to disappear completely.
Within six to twelve months from the surgery date, the incision #scars will soften and fade away. During this time, the rejuvenating effects of the neck lift will become most obvious and the neck feels the most normal (ex. little discomfort, soft, normal sensation, no more post-op firmness). Following this stage, the true restorative effects of your neck lift result will be apparent. If during your healing, you have any concerns, it is suggested to call your board-certified surgeon or their medical staff and discuss those #concerns.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It can take up to 6 months to have your final results, but you will have gradual improvement. To improve final results, a combination approach with thermage/venus legacy and Kybella/Ultherapy which can give improvement. I recommend getting a formal consultation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

Just remember the tightness you had in your neck when in a few months and you are wondering whether he could have made it tighter!Ask your surgeon for exercises to help the tightness.

Mark Samaha, MD · Answer

Although 5 weeks seems like a long time, neck tightness at this point is not abnormal. It takes time for the skin and tissues under the skin to settle after surgery. The tightness you feel goes along with a firmness to the touch as well as a usual numbness. There can also be irregularities to the touch though not visible. All this is part of the healing process and although can sometimes be inconvenient or even uncomfortable, will settle with time. Unfortunately, patience is the only thing that will help at this point.

Jan Zemplenyi, MD · Answer

Thank you for posting your question. Even though swelling and bruising gradually resolve over two weeks, the discoloration and neck tightness may last longer. Over three to four months after the procedure, the skin re-drapes over the newly tightened underlying tissues to reveal the rejuvenated contour. What you are seeing and feeling right now is likely not the final result. Please be patient and continue following up closely with your physician. Best of luck.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

What you are seeing now is a part of the normal healing process and at only 5 weeks, definitely not your final result. The lumpiness, swelling, numbness, tightness, itching and hardness after a face or neck lift like you had typically persists at least 6-8 weeks after the surgery then slowly begin to go away. Give your body time to heal and be patient with your recovery. Best wishes! 
Dean Vistnes, MD.Vistnes Plastic SurgerySan Francisco Bay Area
#drdeanvistnes #realself #necklift

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