6 months post op and one side has more laxity - can this be easily fixed? (photo)

Question

six months after the plane facelift, one side of the face has more laxity than the other. Can this be easily fixed? Will the recovery take as much time as the previous surgery and how big will be scar for this fix?

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Revisions usually are much simpler than the original procedure and can be done in the office under local anesthesia.

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photograph. My impression is that the concern you are describing is more related to the natural differences between the right and left sides of your face, rather than true laxity on one side. Facial asymmetry is a universal characteristic present in everyone, with the degree of asymmetry varying from person to person. Some asymmetries can be corrected surgically, while others cannot, and it is important to recognise that surgery cannot fully overcome all asymmetries.

To better understand whether your concern is due to laxity or underlying asymmetry, I suggest examining your facial appearance while lying down completely flat and using a mirror rather than taking a selfie. In this position, the effects of gravity on tissue displacement are minimised. If the asymmetry persists in this position, it is likely related to skeletal differences rather than tissue laxity. On the other hand, if the asymmetry diminishes when lying down, it may indicate some degree of laxity.

From your photo, the asymmetry in terms of fullness appears to involve both the contour of the jawline and the area lateral to the corner of the mouth. This suggests that the issue may be more related to skeletal asymmetry, particularly the position of the jawbones and the underlying facial structure, rather than soft tissue laxity alone.

If there is still more laxity on one side and the appearance levels out when lying down, a retightening procedure could be performed through the same axis of incisions as before. However, it is important to note that the recovery time would likely be similar to your previous surgery.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! Keep an open communication with your plastic surgeon regarding your concerns. We would also be available to see you in person and discuss your revision options. Recovery time is not as extensive for revisions but do vary with providers. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals!

6 months post op and one side has more laxity - can this be easily fixed? (photo)

Answers (3)

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