Is this degree of neck numbness & throat tightness normal after neck lift?

Question

I had a necklift 5 weeks ago & I am very anxious that I have no sensation at all across my entire anterior neck, extending 3" below my ears, 3" down all across the front of my neck. Additionally, I feel like there is a band constantly pulling across & upwards on my throat. My surgeon disregards these as normal but I would like other opinions as to how common my situation is as these things are quite upsetting & difficult to live with. I did not have liposuction of my neck.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD · Answer

What you are seeing now is a part of the normal healing process and at only 5 weeks, definitely not your final result. The lumpiness, swelling, numbness, itching and hardness after a face or neck lift like you had typically persists at least 6-8 weeks after the surgery then slowly begin to go away. Give your body time to heal and be patient with your recovery. Best wishes! Dean Vistnes, MD.Vistnes Plastic SurgerySan Francisco Bay Area#drdeanvistnes #realself #necklift

Edward E. Dickerson, IV, MD · Answer

Yes, this is not uncommon.  You being 5 weeks post up there are a lot of things you may be experiencing that feel out the normal. The numbness is from being under anesthesia might be accompany with burning and itching sensation as long as you are not having a fever, discharge out the site or hot to the touch. You may have this for the next 12-16 months. The tightness is also normal skin being pulled back. As long as you are not having any difficulty swallowing or breathing you should be fine. I would schedule an appointment with your plastic surgeon again just to follow up with him if you are having additional concerns months. Good luck!!

Jesse E. Smith, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not too uncommon to have prolonged numbness of the neck and face after a face and neck lift.  Remember we do have to elevate the skin and musculature off the remained of the underlying structures in order to reposition them higher and tighter.  This disrupts the nervous supply to the skin.  However, there is great news; the nerves will grow back over time.  It usually takes 12- 18 months to fully recover the sensory distribution.

Victor Chung, MD · Answer

Depending on the amount of lifting, many patients will have a sensation of tightness across their throat after a neck lift with or without facelift. Coupled with numbness, the odd sensation can worry even the most prepared patient. It is normal to experience this after surgery for weeks and even months after surgery. Despite being normal, any concern is worth mentioning to your surgeon. They may ask you questions regarding swallowing and breathing, check your incisions, and give a feel to you neck. The next phase of healing is the return of sensory nerves that may be accompanied by twinges and/or a burning sensation. Follow the instructions you received after surgery and keep up with your follow-up appointments. Healing is a process and it will take months before you feel completely normal. As surgeons, we are there to guide you as you heal, even if it is to tell you that you everything is normal.

Is this degree of neck numbness & throat tightness normal after neck lift?

Answers (4)

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