I have protrusions or lumps under my chin after a neck lift 4 weeks ago. Is this swelling or will I need surgery again? (Photo)

As you can see, there are several different exclamations being postulated as to what is going on here. It may be blood, it may be fluid, it may be fat, it may be a torn stitch and retracted muscle, it may be scar tissue, etc. No one on here, without having done this surgery and knowing the anatomy and what took place, can say for sure. The only thing that is certain is that at only four weeks out, there is most likely some residual swelling in this, the most dependent portion of the face where fluid tends to build up with gravity. Keep in close contact with your surgeon, massage the area, and potentially wear a compressive garment if he/she thinks this might help. Only time will tell how much things will improve, but I suspect things will improve at least slightly.Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

I can understand your concern 4 weeks following your procedure. The #incision scars from a neck lift  tend to “mature” or soften within six to twelve months from the surgery date. During this time, the rejuvenating effects of the neck lift will become most obvious and the neck feels the most normal (ex. little discomfort, soft, normal sensation, no more post-op firmness). Following this stage, the true restorative effects of your neck lift result will be apparent. If during your healing, you have any concerns, it is suggested to call your board-certified surgeon or their medical staff and discuss those #concerns.

Dear Slynn1004Thank you for your question and photo!  You should return to your Surgeon for follow up!  With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Thank you for your question, slynn1004. You are experiencing early stages of healing. While the lumps may arise from uneven healing, they are manageable. I suggest you consult your facial plastic surgeon. Many offices - including ours - have supplementary service offerings, such as massages, to facilitate patients' healing processes. Best wishes,

It appears you are developing some asymmetric healing after the surgery which could be from fluid buildup or bleeding or scar tissue. Its only 4 weeks after so give it time and it should settle down. Consider some massage to the area as well

From your photographs, you appear to have either residual swelling or some residual fat in your neck.  I would doubt that it is muscle from torn stitches.  Time will tell as swelling will resolve and fat will not.  As most, I would think that a small touch up liposuction of the areas would solve your problems.  Be patient!  I wouldn't consider anything for at least 3-6 months.

Hi Slynn, it is possible that this could be dehiscence of the platysma muscle, it could be a fluid collection, it could be persistent swelling. Without doing a physical exam, it is difficult to determine exactly what is going on. I would stay in close contact with your surgeon who can follow you and ensure that you are healing normally.

Thank you for your post and picture. It appears that you have residual fat in the area on top of swelling. It is only 1 month out at this time and could be attributed to mainly swelling. Give it sometime. Sometimes, injections of steroids can help bring the swelling down and wearing a compression garment around the face and neck. Discuss with your surgeon these options. Hope this helps Dr. Miguel

Though very early in postop healing phase (only 4 weeks) appears as a surgical procedural issue that is due to the surgeon's techniques. Most likely after 6 months revision surgery will be needed, but not sure. Or maybe KyBella injections to the bulges might help? Discuss with your chosen surgeon or seek in person sexed opinions... 

Dear slynn1004,
Thanks for your questions. At four weeks post-neck lift, lumps or protrusions under your chin are likely due to swelling, scar tissue, or fluid buildup, which are common and often temporary. However, if you're concerned, it's crucial to follow up with your surgeon to assess the situation and determine if any further treatment is necessary.
Regards,Dr Nhan Ho