Swelling getting worse 2 weeks after facelift. Is this normal?

Hi!Thank you for your question. It is normal to have swelling after the facelift surgery. This swelling can increase after some certain situations like increased humidity and temperature to increased activity. You may also experience a change in swelling after sleeping. If the redness, pain, and swelling is increasing on a regular and constant basis that may be concerning. I would recommend contacting with your plastic surgeon about your concerns. Best wishes

A photograph would be very helpful. For patients who live at a distance, I've found that examining transmitted cell phone pictures by text or email will help your surgeon tell you how much swelling is normal and whether there is anything worrisome. Generally, swelling should be gradually improving rather than getting worse, and the red ear at 2 weeks is not normal. I would definitely send photographs for evaluation — and if necessary, visit your surgeon in person.

Although a substantial amount of
swelling is to be expected after a facelift, it doesn't usually suddenly get
worse 2 weeks after surgery. I recommend that you see you a board-certified
plastic surgeon who practices nearby or even your general practitioner for an
in-person examination. He or she can determine whether you're experiencing any
complications and get you on the path to treatment. I'm sorry that you're
feeling worried and uncomfortable, but the good news is that your symptoms should
be treatable.

While swelling can last longer than two weeks, generally patients do begin to see some improvement rather than worsening at that point. There are certain cases where swelling may get worse, but it’s not the norm. If your surgeon can’t examine you, I would recommend visiting a local surgeon to be examined and see what’s going on. Make sure you visit a board-certified facial plastic surgeon for an expert opinion.

Thank you for your question.

If the swelling is getting worse and you are reporting
inflammation and redness, I recommend that you be examined by your
physician. I wish you the best of luck.

One of the historical disadvantages of having a facelift out of town is lacking immediate access to your Surgeon.  However, with modern messaging tools such as Skype, Facetime, and the ability to text photos to your Surgeon, these concerns should largely be obviated. People heal at varying rates after a Facelift and it is not unusual to still have swelling at 2 weeks; this is not unusual after a deep plane or composite style lift. However, I would caution you to a) keep in close contact with your Surgeon, and b) moderate your activity especially in the setting of increasing swelling.

I would visit with a local plastic surgeon so that he can examine you. Again, this may all be normal..except for the swollen and red ear. This should be examined by a doctor.

Swelling should get better with time.  Redness, pain, and increased swelling may represent an infection and you should be examined by a plastic surgeon in your area who is familiar with the normal post-operative course of face lifting.  Having said that, the two sides of the face often heal at different rates and patients are still often substantially swollen at 2 weeks.  Good luck!

Thank you for your question.  It is normal to have swelling after surgery and this can increase with activity and change after sleeping.  If the redness is increasing then that is something that may be concerning.  I would recommend speaking with your plastic surgeon about your concerns.  All the best, 

Without photos and the benefit of physical exam- it's difficult to comment accurately. It is best to contact your Surgeon and send him/her photos (good resolution), so that you can be evaluated.