I developed black spots in my face after facelift. (Photo)

Question

I went to my dermatologist prescribed antibiotic and took a sample of my skin. Stated that Is due the procedure. Will have the result of the exam. This surgeon has not even bother check how I am even though he knows I very worry. How should approach a neglecting dr. A patient don't deserve this treatment.

Kevin Sadati, DO · Answer

Based on your photos, you have compromised areas of skin were the flap was elevated. I am not sure how long ago was your facelift surgery. If it was more than 2 weeks ago. This discoloration will not turn to worse  to become necrosis. This can happen occasionally after face lift surgery, more commonly in smokers. This usually heal well - just continue to follow up with your surgeon for postoperative care.

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Based on your photo it looks like you may have compromised blood flow to the skin, and at best severe bruising. It is very important to followup with your surgeon to see if you have a hematoma or any other actionable cause of this discoloration. Always make sure you surgeon is experienced and board certified, for example the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You need to see your surgeon as soon as possible.

Jack Zoumaras, MBBS, FRACS (Plast) · Answer

You have two dilemmas one is the healing and colour of your face and the other is the follow up care of your surgeon.
Your face around the ear appears to be dark and dusky which indicates that the skin flap has a compromised blood supply and is struggling. This can happen during a facelift and worse case scenario the skin blood supply fails and the skin slowly sheds and heals over 3-6 weeks. Normally what happens is the skin recovers slowly and is just slower to heal. There is not much you can do with regards to the healing of the skin and its colour, except stop smoking if you are a smoker.
Your surgeon should see you to examine the skin and talk you through what is likely to happen as he/she best knows your medical condition during and after surgery. I am sure if you were to send this photo to your surgeon it would prompt him to see you ASAP. If not i would see another plastic surgeon.

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the picture and your questions. It looks like the skin flap in front of your ear has not healed well. I can't say for sure based on the picture alone, but the color change may be related to areas where the blood supply of the skin was not sufficient or the flap was too thin. In addition, if the area was closed under too much tension, parts of the skin can necrose (die due to lack of bloodflow). This can lead to pigmentation changes as the area heals. Please check in with your surgeon as soon as possible.

Robert Brueck, MD · Answer

From lloking at your photos this is due to compromise of the blood flow to the face lift flaps.You don't have any blistering so this should slowly resolve but be very careful about putting heat on it.Sorry your plastic surgeon is so um responsive but I think you will do fine.Blessings.

Benjamin J. Cousins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your post. It is best and extremely important to see your original surgeon, but if you are unable to see him/her then you need to a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for a follow-up very soon.Sincerely,Dr. Benjamin J. Cousins MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Miami/Miami Beach/Broward

Julie Edween, DO · Answer

wkljuce,It is difficult to fully evaluate your skin with the current picture, especially not knowing how long ago surgery was.  It appears that the discoloration is due to the skin flap that was elevated, so please follow up with your surgeon as soon as possible to be fully examined and evaluated, and treated in a timely fashion. Best of luck!Dr. Edween

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

This is a serious wound issue - potential necrosis of the pre auricular skin flap. Seek paid in person second opinions from boarded PSs...

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

Hello and thank you for your excellent question. Based on your photos, it is difficult to tell what is going on. You may have compromised blood flow to your facial skin. I suggest that you find a surgeon that you trust to evaluate you. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of patients who have had similar procedures. Good luck!
Best,
  
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS
  
Harvard educated plastic surgeon
  
Texas “Top Doc”

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Schedule an appointment with your surgeon for a face to face meeting as soon as possible.  Based on the photos this is due to compromise of the blood flow to the face lift flaps.  Sorry you are having this problem.

I developed black spots in my face after facelift. (Photo)

Answers (11)

More Facelift Questions

What causes ringing in the ears after having facelift surgery?

Best treatment for hypertrophic scars behind both ears that hurt and vertical bands in neck 3 months post-op. (Photos)

Can 2 jaw surgeries and full facelift be done together or around the same time?

How much weight may I lose after facelift without consequences?

What is the difference in incisions between lower face lift, mini lift and/or neck lift?

Is it normal to be itchy after a facelift?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS