Three months post op lower face and neck lift - still tight under neck and on the right side.

A feeling of tightness of the neck muscles is normal after a necklift and is often caused by the technique used.  Often patients have one side that may appear tighter than the other and this is usually caused by swelling.  You may want to think about what side you sleep on - I have had patients have much more swelling on one side or the other and when asked, it is often their preferred side to sleep on at night!  This will all get better with time and if the tight side does not loosen up, massage directed by the surgeon should be able to help. 

Thank you for your question Adele.  Tightening of the platysma muscle will leave patients feeling tight and its not uncommon to feel this more on one side.  Please advise your surgeon of your concerns and ensure you have regular follow ups, so they can assess.  They will then be able to advise whether you can massage it, this sometimes will help with scar tissue.  Unfortunately it will take time, so patients is definitely key.Best Of Luck!! 

Thank you for your question. Depending on which technique has been used, it takes several month for the final result to appear and the face/neck to settle. Massage of the neck and jawline also help the scar tissue to soften. I would agree that time will help - and if you feel necessary - ask for an earlier review with your surgeon to express your concern and ask his/her advice.All the best.Andrea MarandoPlastic and Cosmetic Surgeon

The feeling of tightness under the neck is quite common after these procedures, and feeling it tighter on one side  is also not unusual.  You're doing the right thing to wait another three months. Sometimes massage helps to loosen the area. Let your surgeon guide you.