I had a face, neck and brow lift on March 3rd. Since then about every 6 weeks I have an extreme breakout. Is this normal?(photo)

Question

I did not have any breakouts prior to the surgery. I am wondering if there is fluids, i.e., puss that is trying to get to get out from under the skin due to the surgery. It lasts 5-7 days and then clears up. This is the third time I am breaking out. My surgeon is treating it as acne. The pimples start as 1 or 2 bumps and within 1 day look like the picture below Not sure if I should go see a dermatologist. This is a definite result of the surgery.

Greg Chernoff, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. What you are experiencing is not unusual. You may be reacting to some of the deep sutures used in a Facelift. This can go on for several weeks. It can be stressful for the patient. Follow your surgeons post-op regime. It can take a year or longer for all of the subtle healing to take place.
Best wishes.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

This sort of acne breakout is not normal after facelift.  You may be having a reaction to the buried sutures.  You should see your surgeon for evaluation.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

It is very difficult to advise you on this issue over the Internet. However,  this isn't normal and should be evaluated by your Surgeon

Khashayar Mohebali, MD, FACS · Answer

It doesn't sound like a normal reaction after surgery, especially that you say your get it every 6 weeks.  I would seek an evaluation from your surgeon to see if antibiotics or a biopsy is indicated.  Good luck

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Something "seriously" not right. YES seek in person term evaluation and biopsy of the areas...///////

I had a face, neck and brow lift on March 3rd. Since then about every 6 weeks I have an extreme breakout. Is this normal?(photo)

Answers (5)