I look stiff and unnatural when I try to smile. I'm15 days post-op. Will this resolve in time?

Question

I had a lower face lift (with fat transfer) and a neck lift 15 days ago. I've healed well and look good, but when I try to smile I just look freaky. My mouth still doesn't open fully and my speech is slightly slurred, but I can eat and drink reasonably well and have no pain. I was expecting tightness and swelling, but not this smiling issue. Is this all normal and will it resolve in time?

Thomas P. Sterry, MD · Answer

As you say, swelling and tightness are quite normal.  You say your smile is "freaky", but what does that mean?  There are rare occasions when this can happen, but I would suspect your Surgeon would know it when you say him/her on the first day post op visit.  Please check in with them.Good Luck!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

First and foremost, its best to remain patient. It is still early in to your recovery. The healing process in general can take up to one month for the majority of swelling to subside, incisions to close, sutures to come out, and for bruising to completely go away. #Recovery time from a #facelift varies from person to person, but patients can generally expect to be presentable within three weeks from surgery. Patients should expect swelling, bruising, and discoloration of the skin during this phase of recovery (swelling normally goes down after 48 hours; most bruising will go away within two weeks). The marks from a facelift can easily hidden with “camouflage” make-up which you can learn how to apply.The scars from a facelift mature within six to twelve months from the surgery date. It is during this time that the rejuvenating effects of the facelift will become apparent and the real result will be seen. If you have certain concerns about the procedures and #healing process, it is recommended to call your board-certified surgeon or their medical staff and discuss those #concerns.

Mark Karolak, DO, FAOCO · Answer

Each patient heals differently, and each surgeon’s technique
tends to vary, as well. You mentioned having a lower face lift, which is the
name for a group of different procedures, some more invasive than others.
 While fat transfer can cause some swelling and bruising, it does not
often create a hindrance to normal movement of the face. Any type of “lift”
surgery, however, which often involves the repositioning and tightening of
muscles, can create temporary changes to movement during the healing process.

Often when patients complain of tightness after facial
rejuvenation surgeries, it is more that they aren’t used to the muscles feeling
toned and in their more youthful position, and less that the area is still
tight from swelling and the healing process. As you progress, you should expect
to notice the tightness lessen over a few days post surgery, and your
normal expressions should feel more natural.

Most important to understand is that you should have these
conversations with your surgeon to know if what you are
experiencing is normal.  Without an in person discussion and
examination, it is impossible to make adequate assessment of your situation. You
should schedule a follow-up with your surgeon to check that your concerns
are consistent with the actual procedures performed and what he expected
for your healing.

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thanks for the question.  Although, at this early stage in recovery, stiffness and tightness, are not uncommon, I would recommend a review with your surgeon, to ensure no complications.

Mark T. Boschert, MD · Answer

At two weeks you will still have some swelling which can give you some contour issues. However, the smiling issues should be mostly resolved. I would suggest you talk to your surgeon about These and be evaluated.Good luck!

I look stiff and unnatural when I try to smile. I'm15 days post-op. Will this resolve in time?

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