Hard lump under skin 6 weeks post SMAS facelift. What are my options? (photo)

Question

The lump appeared the day after surgery. My doctor checked it and said it would resolve over time. My face is misshapen on that side and the lump is causing my glasses to sit crooked on my face. The rest of the swelling seems to have dissipated, but the lump is as big as ever. Is it possible it is scar tissue from a hematoma that wasn't treated? What are my options?

Alejandro J. Quiroz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I will go to my doctor and have it aspirated.  It can be serum, blood or saliva.  Call the office and have it check.

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question and pictures.  You have most likely developed a hematoma that would need to be drained.  You need to make a follow up with your surgeon to ask whether it needs draining it massaging or LDM would help.  All The Best

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Dear worriedtexan,Thank you for your question. The most likely cause of a large lump after a facelift are hematoma and resultant scar tissue. In the first 6 weeks I have used a massage and radiofrequency based devices to dissipate swelling and small hematomas/bruising after a facelift. For a large hematoma, the area needs to be drained surgically and can form into scar. If that is in fact what you have, you can try massage and wait. If it does not improve after 6-12 months, you may need additional surgery.Good luck,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
  
ACGME-Trained Craniofacial Surgeon

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Most likely you have a hematoma that may need to be drained. I would suggest going back to your surgeon and ask for treatment. Massage and ultrasound or radiofrequency treatments can be helpful.

Hard lump under skin 6 weeks post SMAS facelift. What are my options? (photo)

Answers (4)

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