Could Stitches from Mid-face Lift Prevent Normal Smile?

Question

I had Mid facelift and lower eyelid removed a month ago and I'm still swollen and there is some white millias under my eye now. I don't think I can smile as I use to. Is it because of that stitches in my mouth? Help me. How long will it be like that?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello esraYou are still in recovery, i would advice you visit or ontact your plastic surgeon bout this concern.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Thils is likely due to sevral factors including swelling, mechanical interference with the muscles, neuropraxia, etfc. It is very likely that the vast majority of your symptoms will resolve over time with littel sequela.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Midface lifts usually cause a smile change and this resolves in a few months without any treatment. Nothing will make this go faster. The milia will also go away.

Sam Goldberger, MD · Answer

This sounds temporary to me.  It is only one month after surgery and you are still swollen.  It is highly unlikely that midface lift sutures will permanently affect your smile.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Prolonged swelling after a cheek lift is possible. The temporary change in your smile is due to the swelling which will resolve. The milia are temporary.

Could Stitches from Mid-face Lift Prevent Normal Smile?

Answers (5)