3 weeks post op Facelift, the swelling doesn't seem to go down. I had bruise on one side & still tender. Any suggestion? (photo)

Thank

you for submitting your question. 3 weeks post op is still early in your
recovery. Final results will take 6-12 months. Brusing in the lower eyelid usually last lonbger then in other areas of the face.  This will improve over time. Discuss your
concerns with your surgeon. Best Wishes

Thank you for your question and photo. It looks like your swelling is normal. It also looks like the small bruise that you have is normal. You are too early to make any statements about long term results. There will be swelling, and some contour irregularities. One has to also look for fluid accumulation, etc. Best to inform your surgeon about your concerns. Together you will make a plan to get through the post operative course.

Jeffrey J. Roth, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Las Vegas Plastic Surgery

At 3 weeks postop you are still healing and it is common to have swelling. Continue to follow up with yoru chosen surgeon. 

Thank you for your question and pictures.It is normal to have some mild swelling 3 weeks after #facelift surgery and I can assure you that your swelling is not severe.The small bruise under your eye will also go away; the skin of the lower lid is so thin that a small bruise there tends to be the last one to go.Fat grafting to face during a facelift will also prolong slightly the swelling and bruising, yet, I consider fat grafting an essential component of all my facelift procedures here in Toronto.Some believe turmeric and bromelain can help speeding up bruising and swelling so you could try those.But all looks appropriate after 3 weeks.Hope this reassures you.DrMarcDuPere, Toronto Royal College Board-Certified
plastic surgeon

Thanks for posting your question and photo.  Bruising of the lower eyelid from a facelift is uncommon but does happen on occasion.  I feel bruising in this area does tend to linger longer than other areas of the face.  You could try some warm compresses with the approval of your surgeon.  All bruising and swelling eventual goes away.  Please be patient and see your surgeon as needed.

Often times after facelift surgery patients feel much more swollen than they actually are. This is due to the numbness that accompanies facelift surgery. When the sutures are place around the nerve that supplies the sensation to the nerve it remains numb for up to 6 months or more in some patients. When the skin is numb, it feels much more swollen than it actually is. As with so many issues after surgery, time is your best friend. The bruise on your cheek may have a small hematoma causing the tenderness. Warm compresses often help patients with these types of bruises. Remember, you may be numb, so check the temperature of your warm (NOT HOT) compresses if you try them.Sleeping with your head elevated above your heart will allow the swelling and bruising to subside more rapidlyJohn Standefer MD