Lip lift incisions not closing up after two weeks? (photo)

Question

My lip lift incitions don't appear to be closing up. It looks like I have a an open ditch running down the sides of my nostrils. Is this normal? I'm absolutely miserable about it. I've had to return to work and I'm so embarrassed. Is there anything I can do to make it heal and close up? I have an important meeting in a week and Im so embarrassed! In one pic I have aquaphor and on the other it's dry. I've been alternating b/w letting it dry and keeping it moist.

Miguel Mascaro, MD · Answer

I hate to hear what you are going through.  I hope that you are keeping your PS aware of your healing troubles.  Part of the reason why you are seeing this is increased tension on the wound - thats why it is taking long to close up.  Keeping the area as clean as possible and proper wound care is of utmost importance.  As much as you may want to let it dry, dryness leads to scabs, scabs lead to bacteria festering underneath, bacteria lead to inflammation and scarring.  That's the easiest way to think of it.  I would try and keep things as clean as possible, and aquaphor, vaseline, or silicone scar gel will continue to work well.  As I mentioned before, let your PS know of what is happening as they may have their own protocol as well.  Best of luck, and let us know if there is anything we can do to help.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello I would advice you visit or contact your plastic surgeon about this concern and all other post-op concern.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Please review your recovery expectations and best practices with your board certified facial plastic surgeon. It may help to go into the office so the office staff can show you how to take care of the incisions.
Best wishes,

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Proper wound care is important. Reduce tension on the incision. Make sure to use Plato's Scar Serum twice daily on the area once the skin begins to heal. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Malcolm D. Paul, MD · Answer

The scars will need to be revised no sooner than 3-6 months after the initial procedure.   Applying Biocorneum to the scars will soften them and decrease the redness, but, ultimately, you will need a scar revision and this is not the time to do it.

Lip lift incisions not closing up after two weeks? (photo)

Answers (5)