Horizontal ridges on face after facelift - will I need a revision? (photos)

Question

I have these ridges on my face that extend from the outer corners of my eyes to my hairline. Is this a lateral sweep? Will these go away or does it look like I need a revision? The surgeon says swelling, but there has been no change in the swelling in over a week. Thank you in advance.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Based on the appearance in the photos it does appear to be swelling. Many of these irregularities following Facelift will smooth out on their own over time and rarely will a revision be needed. This swelling may persist for several months, but it typically does smooth out.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

The ridges you describe may be lateral sweep deformities. These are areas of skin that appear to be pulled too tightly in a lateral direction, creating ridges or folds that extend from the outer corners of the eyes to the hairline.

In some cases, lateral sweep deformities can occur as a result of swelling in the early stages of the healing process after surgery. However, if the swelling has not changed in over a week and the ridges remain, it's possible that they may require revision surgery to correct.

It's important to communicate your concerns with your surgeon and have them evaluate the area to determine the best course of action. Revision surgery may be necessary to address the ridges and achieve the desired outcome.

In summary, lateral sweep deformities can occur after facial surgery and may require revision surgery to correct. It's important to communicate your concerns with your surgeon and have them evaluate the area to determine the best course of action.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You are clearly still swollen and it’s only been a short time since your surgery. I would give it at least a month for all the swelling to go away

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Though the 2 posted photos seem to demonstrate an early postop surgery?? I see swelling in orbital lateral zone. Maybe more time like 2 months or external ultrasound therapy to the area could help.

Horizontal ridges on face after facelift - will I need a revision? (photos)

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