Why Do I Still Have Extreme Pulling, Pressure and Tightness 6 Months After Facelift Surgery?

Question

I am 6 months post mid facelift, neck lift, upper and lower blephoplasty, endoscopic brow lift and cheek implants. I am still experiencing extreme tightness, pressure and numbness in front of and behind my ears, neck and all incisions. Been to PS several times, tried oral steroids, etc.. with no relief. My neck still feels like I'm being choked. . Can I expect any improvement given I am 6 months out with little or no improvement since my surgery?

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

i thase been my experience that most patients don't report signficant amounts of "tightness."   furthermore, any tightness expeirenced is generally improved withing 1-2 months, if that.  what you are experiencing might be a technique-dependent issue.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

When sensory nerves are cut, damaged or impinged during surgery, and you had the blue plate special, these types of sensations can occur.  Of course the brief statement about abnormal sensation that might result after a facelift that was in your consent, does not really prepare you for what you are describing.  Time can be very helpful this these sorts of issues.  Generally though I find that for some, an assessment by a neurologist can be very helpful.  Some drugs including some in the antidepressant family can help the body better deal with these sensations.  Generally while these sensory changes tend to dimmish over time, drug treatment can be beneficial in certain situations and it might be useful for you to explore this.

W. Matthew White, MD · Answer

Neck tightness after facelift and necklift surgery is uncommon but it can be treated.  Usually it resolves with time.  Wound contraction is a normal process that occurs after any surgery.  Neck tightness is an exaggerated form of the natural healing process.  I agree with Dr. Mayl, massage and steroid injection (Kenalog) can be helpful.  The other thing that your plastic surgeon may try is a botox injection in the platysma muscle.  It can help the muscle relax and lessen the discomfort.  Neck stretching and yoga can also be helpful.

Pablo Prichard, MD · Answer

Dear Melody,

	Thank you for your question.  Most patient get used to the extra tightness and it resolves in a month or two.  You may have some scar tissue develope and may benefit from steroid injection or massage.  Follow up with your plastic surgeon and express you concerns.

	Best Wishes,

	Pablo Prichard, MD

Roy A. David, MD · Answer

Six months  is a long time to have this degree of discomfort. If not satisfied with your surgeon's answer you may wish to consult with another facial plastic surgeon for some reassurance.

Why Do I Still Have Extreme Pulling, Pressure and Tightness 6 Months After Facelift Surgery?

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Answer: Why Do I Still Have Extreme Pulling, Pressure and Tightness 6 Months After Facelift Surgery?

Answer: Why Do I Still Have Extreme Pulling, Pressure and Tightness 6 Months After Facelift Surgery?

Answer: Tightness after Facelift

Answer: Tightness after Facelift

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Why Do I Still Have Extreme Pulling, Pressure and Tightness 6 Months After Facelift Surgery?

Answers (8)

Answer: Why Do I Still Have Extreme Pulling, Pressure and Tightness 6 Months After Facelift Surgery?

Answer: Why Do I Still Have Extreme Pulling, Pressure and Tightness 6 Months After Facelift Surgery?

Answer: Tightness after Facelift

Answer: Tightness after Facelift

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

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