Still having nerve issues 4.5 months after lower face lift. (photos)

Question

Hi! I am 4.5 dos post neck and low face cosmetic surgery.My surgeon who says he is "certain of 100% recovery", but can't say when.My upper right lip pulls upward and over and wrinkles strongly and my lower left lip pulls downward. I cant use a straw, I drool when I drink from a glass, I have swelling still( thats normal probably) my speech is impaired,I have difficulty chewing correctly.Do I have cause for concern? If I wait too long before any treatment, can I have more damage? Thank you.

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

At this point, your best option is to wait and let the body heal.  The nerve usually recovers within 6 months, but sometimes can take up to a year in rare cases.  Be sure to follow with your surgeon.  Good luck with your recovery.

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I am sorry to hear that you are going through this issue. Something that you may want to consider doing while you wait for the nerve function to recover is to get some Botox injections to the face to help even out the symmetry. Good luck in your recovery.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

You appear to have a weakness of the left facial nerve.   This gives the picture you see.    Every plastic surgeon has had a few of these to follow and nearly 100% revert to normal.    4 months is still quite early.   Time is the healer.  My Best,  Dr Commons

Still having nerve issues 4.5 months after lower face lift. (photos)

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Still having nerve issues 4.5 months after lower face lift. (photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lower Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.