My tragus and the back of both ears are still red and inflamed at 7 weeks post-op facelift. Is this normal? (Photos)

I'm sorry to read that you're still
experiencing these symptoms 7 weeks after your surgery, and I can certainly understand
your frustration. Scars tend to be most red at 6 to 10 weeks. Infection is highly uncommon and typically
manifests earlier in the recuperative process, which is likely why your
antibiotics aren't helping. I believe that what you're observing is a normal
part of the healing process, although the redness is more pronounced than for
most patients at this point. If your original surgeon's office isn't offering
you meaningful help, consider visiting a different plastic surgeon for a second
opinion.

Thank you for the question and the photos. First, some redness or flushing around the incisions is normal as you heal from a facelift. It is important that, if there is warmth, or tenderness, or drainage, that this be considered and antibiotics be prescribed in case of infection (cellulitis). Second, there are treatments for this. In my practice, we use topical scar preparations containing silicone gel in most patients. In addition, IPL or BBL laser treatments can reduce redness and persistent bruising in many cases. Please inquire with your surgeon about these options. Take care!

The head is extremely vascular, so
it's not uncommon for inflammation to still be present at 7 weeks post-op. In
fact, that's often when it's at its worst. If antibiotics aren't helping, it's
rather unlikely that you're dealing with an infection. Keep an eye on the area:
If you notice warmth, pain, or systemic issues, such as a fever, see your
surgeon. Otherwise, I think patience is the best approach.

First and foremost, its best to remain patient. It is still early in to your recovery. The healing process in general can take up to one month for the majority of swelling to subside, incisions to close, sutures to come out, and for bruising to completely go away. #Recovery time from a #facelift varies from person to person, but patients can generally expect to be presentable within three weeks from surgery. Patients should expect swelling, bruising, and discoloration of the skin during this phase of recovery (swelling normally goes down after 48 hours; most bruising will go away within two weeks). The marks from a facelift can easily hidden with “camouflage” make-up which you can learn how to apply.The scars from a facelift mature within six to twelve months from the surgery date. It is during this time that the rejuvenating effects of the facelift will become apparent and the real result will be seen. If you have certain concerns about the procedures and #healing process, it is recommended to call your board-certified surgeon or their medical staff and discuss those #concerns.

The redness in the scars, when it happens can take a long time to go away may be a year or even longer. The diffuse redness behind your ear is unusual and infection has to be ruled out. Infection is very unlikely. There are other signs like increased warmth and tenderness that might indicate an infection. You should be seen by the plastic surgeon who performed the surgery as he would be the best person to help you. I am surprised that he has sent you to your PCP or ER when you are only seven weeks after your surgery. 

It does not appear to be an infection.  This erythema most likely has developed from tension across the line of closure.  This can lead to atrophy of the skin along the incision line and hyperemia from the resulting inflammation.  A topical ointment like Aquaphor should help these areas heal.  The erythema should gradually resolve.  

Inflammation which is responsible for the redness shown in the photographs is a normal component of wound healing. It varies from patient to patient. The intensity in the short term is not a predictor of the final scar. Nevertheless, the process should be monitored by your plastic surgeon.

Although an examination would be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis, this is highly unlikely to be an infectious process. Erythema or redness along incisions is expected for 8-12 weeks after such a procedure and will gradually fade over the course of the next year. This question will be best answered by your own Surgeon with an inperson evaluation.

It is unlikely that you would develop and infection this late following a facelift.  You are likely healing in normal fashion, but you should be evaluated by your surgeon.  If the redness is worsening or if there is increasing pain then you should be more concerned.  Your condition will likely settle over the next several weeks.  Best Regards

An in person evaluation is needed by your surgeon to determine the proper course of action. Antibiotics and steroids may not be needed and this may just resolve with time, but a personal examination is needed and follow up is appropriate.