Is it normal to have swollen lymph nodes after lower face lift?

Thank you for your question.It is possible to have swollen lymph nodes after surgery as there is some healing and inflammation after all types of surgery.Normal lymph nodes can also be more easily palpated after the liposuction that we often performed with facelift and necklift procedures.You could also be feeling internal deeper stitches.That being said, it could also be a sign of infection (throat or skin) and I would quickly visit your plastic surgeon for an assessment and reassurance.Best of luck,Dr. Marc DuPere, Toronto plastic surgeon

Swollen lymph nodes can be due to many different things.  It is important to have it evaluated by your surgeon to see if it warrants a referral to another specialty or if it is normal postoperative swelling that you are mistaking for a lymph node. Your surgeon should be made aware of any type off swelling which concerns you when you notice it.  Unfortunately, without a good history and in-person examination, an accurate recommendation and diagnosis cannot be made. 

Hello Ludmilaag,In the immediate post operative period there may be some reactive swelling of the lymph nodes.  Usually this can not be felt because of the swelling from surgery.  If you are referring to the submandibular glands (a large spit gland) which is below the jaw on both sides, these may be more noticeable in some people after a facelift.  The reason is the glands can fall or sag with time.  If not recognized before surgery, once the surrounding tissue is lifted, the glands can be more noticeable.  This would not have affected the neck lift or lower face lift, but knowing about it ahead of time can prevent worry after the procedure if they become visible.  There are surgeries that can remove those glands but they are not usually recommended for cosmetic purposes.  The other reason lymph nodes can swell is because of an infection.  To make sure this is not happening, you should be evaluated by your surgeon.  I hope this helps and good luck.