Is uneven swelling, and ripple indenting normal after 2 weeks? (Photos)

Question

I had submental neck lift and lipo. I am a healthy, non smoker in my 30s. I have always been consistently at a healthy weight but always have had a weak chin muscle. Had a neck “corset” submental muscle lift and lipo. Only one incision under chin. I understand swelling and final results are still early to see but I am starting to be concerned at the uneasiness and the unsmooth area. Doctor said to start to message and it’s just normal swelling. Should I get a second oppinion and act sooner than later to get it checked out.

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

It is difficult to assess the results of almost any surgery after just 2 weeks. However, it appears in the 2 lateral photos that you indeed have a weak chin and could benefit from a chin implant. The chin implant will give you an improved profile and diminish the extra skin that is seen in your photos. The risk of having an isolated liposuction and what sounds like a platysmaplasty (neck corset) is that you can be left with unwanted extra skin. This extra skin is normally removed during a necklift procedure or via minimally invasive procedures like Facetite or J-plasma.

Justin C. Cohen, MD, FACS · Answer

It is still way too early to assess anything. Swelling is likely clouding the picture and will continue to improve. Steroid and/or 5-fluorouracil injections can help tailor the region throughout the recovery period. Happy healing.

Richard J. Wassermann, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Although it is difficult fully assess since we do not have any pre-operative pictures, at just 2 weeks after surgery final results are not accurate, and overall it looks to be a nice result. I would advise to continue massaging the area as well as wearing your garment for compression. Results will continue to improve for more than 6 weeks after your procedure. Consult your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for follow-ups as indicated and discuss any concerns regarding your outcome with them. Best of Luck!

Is uneven swelling, and ripple indenting normal after 2 weeks? (Photos)

Answers (3)