I had a neck and face lift a little less than 3 weeks ago. Drains slowed to 2.5cc 24hrs and were taken out after 1 week. I developed a seroma that leaked behind my ear the day after. Doc would try irrigating with something that might help it close up and saw me nearly every day. Most of my neck and chin did heal. Now 2.5 weeks, he has decided to pack it with gauze. I’m freaking out and need a second opinion on what to do. It’s such a difficult area to manage. I can’t even shower.
July 1, 2019
Answer: Open wound after facelift Wound breakdown behind and above the ears after facelift is not uncommom, because these are areas of greatest tension and poorest blood supply. This is very anxiety provoking for the patient, but fortunately most frequently heals with good wound care and generally does not affect the outcome. The process can take several weeks to several months depending on the extent of the problem. Occasionally scar revisions are required. I always recommend following your surgeons postoperative instructions for best results. In our practice, we have patients shower and wash their hair twenty four hours after surgery, and continue this if wound care becomes necessary . From observing your photos only , it would appear that your wounds should heal uneventfully.
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July 1, 2019
Answer: Open wound after facelift Wound breakdown behind and above the ears after facelift is not uncommom, because these are areas of greatest tension and poorest blood supply. This is very anxiety provoking for the patient, but fortunately most frequently heals with good wound care and generally does not affect the outcome. The process can take several weeks to several months depending on the extent of the problem. Occasionally scar revisions are required. I always recommend following your surgeons postoperative instructions for best results. In our practice, we have patients shower and wash their hair twenty four hours after surgery, and continue this if wound care becomes necessary . From observing your photos only , it would appear that your wounds should heal uneventfully.
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June 30, 2019
Answer: Seroma and open wound following a facelift Hi, I know that the look of the area behind our ear can be scary, but to reassure you, this area will heal in time. Your doctor should be able to close the open incision soon as the wound looks very clean.I do not think that the doc did anything wrong. Sometimes these things can happen, but I think that you will look fine in the very near future. Keep in contact with your physician and let him/her know of your concerns.Best Wishes,Dr. Christine Rodgers
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June 30, 2019
Answer: Seroma and open wound following a facelift Hi, I know that the look of the area behind our ear can be scary, but to reassure you, this area will heal in time. Your doctor should be able to close the open incision soon as the wound looks very clean.I do not think that the doc did anything wrong. Sometimes these things can happen, but I think that you will look fine in the very near future. Keep in contact with your physician and let him/her know of your concerns.Best Wishes,Dr. Christine Rodgers
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