Problem with neck lift sutures?

Question

I am 16.5 months post necklift and have constant tightness, choking and burning from where the suture is anchored behind my ears, all across my neck. It is getting worse over time. (My jawline looks unnaturally tight.) I believe a permanent suture was used. The knots just under my skin behind both ears have not gotten smaller. I don't know what material was used. I will not return to the surgeon in Costa Rica. Could removing the suture provide relief? Is it too tight and/or could I be allergic?

Steven M. Daines, MD, FACS · Answer

I am sorry to hear about these symptoms. Extreme tightness and knots behind the ears this far out from surgery are not normal. You should be evaluated by an experienced facelift surgeon to examine your incisions and feel for permanent sutures that may be contributing to your symptoms. Sutures that irritate or compress a nerve in your upper neck under your earlobe call the great auricular nerve can also cause burning and chronic pain.Although many surgeons use permanent sutures to tighten the muscle layer under the skin, I prefer sutures that dissolve over time to prevent suture related problems that can arise months to years later.

Richard O. Gregory, MD · Answer

Problem with neck lift sutures?
The patient is nearly 17 months following a neck lift in Costa Rica.  She is having pain tightness and choking as well as palpable sutures.  At this lengthy follow-up date it is likely that permanent sutures were used as absorbable sutures largely would be gone or softened.  It should not be difficult to locate and remove the sutures or at least loosen them providing relief.  Obviously there will be scar tissue from the surgery which may have some persistent tightness.  It is unlikely the patient is allergic to the sutures.

Earl E. Ferguson III, MD, FACS · Answer

Suspension sutures that run across the neck from ear to ear can sometimes create the effect that you describe.  It is generally done with a permanent suture because the lifting effect goes away if the suture does. Unfortunately, sometimes the only effective relief is removing the suture.  What you are describing is not consistent with an allergy. Fortunately however, there are alternate means of creating the effect you desire. An experienced board certified plastic surgeon can ensure that you have the best possible outcome.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

It sounds like you need a consultation regarding your neck and you will need to weigh up the pros and cons of further interventions. I would arrange a second opinion and I would also try and get a copy of the op note from your original surgery to see what was done. you could also post your photos to help give a more informed opinion.

Kevin L. Smith, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question. Permanent sutures are used in some necklift techniques to provide a mechanical sling to support the neck muscles. If these are too tight then they can cause the persistent choking sensation that you describe. Seek the advice of an experienced board certified plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon (or two) and express your concerns. The removal of the sutures can be straightforward and hopefully will be able to resolve the tightness. If there is residual scar remaining after the removal of the sutures then this too may have to be released at the time of surgery. It is doubtful that this is caused by an allergic reaction to to sutures used. I hope this helps, Best wishes.

Problem with neck lift sutures?

Answers (6)

Answer: Permanent sutures

Answer: Permanent sutures

Answer: Problem (persistent tightness) with neck lift sutures?

Answer: Problem (persistent tightness) with neck lift sutures?

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Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

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Problem with neck lift sutures?

Answers (6)

Answer: Permanent sutures

Answer: Permanent sutures

Answer: Problem (persistent tightness) with neck lift sutures?

Answer: Problem (persistent tightness) with neck lift sutures?

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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.