3 weeks post neck lift - Swelling progressively getting worse. Will my chin slim up again? What's wrong? What to do? (photo)

Question

Nearly 3 wks post neck lift: lipo under and over the plastysma muscle and a platysma-plasty by a board certified plastic surgeon out of state. After surgery, neck looked fantastic. The drains were removed and the swelling got bad and never recovered. His nurse suggested using an ace bandage wrap. This morning I woke up and my chin looks like it was before the surgery, if not worse. Tissue is softer. Swelling is progressively getting worse. Will my chin slim up again? What's wrong? What to do?***UPDATE: Added 3 weeks post-op photos 12/3/2018

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

First, you should see your surgeon just to make sure there is not a hematoma  present. It is also advisable to wear a compression face wrap during the recovery phase. This may help move along the healing process.

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to give it time. The surgical maneuvers were performed adequately as evidenced by your immediate post op photos. At this point, there’s no reason for the result to undo itself after 3 weeks. Apply compression wraps to reduce swelling and follow with your surgeon.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and though you may feel you've regressed, your immediate photos show what the anticipated outcome will be when all the healing and swelling is done.  You should certainly see your surgeon (not nurse) and see if there are any fluid collections that may benefit from aspiration.  Otherwise there is not much else to do except to be patient and heal.  Keep your surgeon informed of your concerns so you can get the needed reassurances you desire so you can focus on healing.

Val Lambros, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

You clearly look better than before.Your neck is going thru a predictable phase of tightening and contracture.I treat this with very dilute injections of steroids and a chin strap. It will get better, talk to your surgeon

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear hendrix84, I personally provide a chin wrap that is like a headband with foam on it that the patient wears in the evening to help with the healing and any swelling. Speak to your surgeon perhaps they can send one to you. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

3 weeks post neck lift - Swelling progressively getting worse. Will my chin slim up again? What's wrong? What to do? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Neck lift

Answer: Neck lift

Answer: Chin Wrap to Help Healing After Necklift and Submental Liposuction

Answer: Chin Wrap to Help Healing After Necklift and Submental Liposuction

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Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

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3 weeks post neck lift - Swelling progressively getting worse. Will my chin slim up again? What's wrong? What to do? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Neck lift

Answer: Neck lift

Answer: Chin Wrap to Help Healing After Necklift and Submental Liposuction

Answer: Chin Wrap to Help Healing After Necklift and Submental Liposuction

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.