15 days post op Neck & Facelift with Liposuction, I am sore, lumpy, bruised, and swollen on one side. Is this normal? (photos)

Question

I had neck and facelift with liposuction 15 days ago and since the main swelling has gone I have a very sore swollen lumpy area under my jaw that looks bruised. Is this normal?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Your 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). When the skin is separated from the underlying tissues during surgery, small sensory #nerves are cut. Varying degrees of numbness will be present after surgery and will improve gradually as the nerves reconnect to the skin. This process can take from 2-6 months for face, neck and cheeks, and to 9-12 months for the forehead and scalp. Muscle weakness may also be present around the mouth especially if liposuction is used. This typically recovers fully in the months after surgery.

As the nerves regenerate, the itching, burning, tingling and shooting #sensations will occur. Ice, moisturizers and gentle #massaging are helpful during this phase of the #healing process. Frequently there is a tight feeling in the neck, jawline and cheek after a facelift. During surgery, not only the skin but the underlying muscles are tightened to create a better and longer lasting result. Additionally, the #swelling will move downward in the first week and the neck will feel even tighter. Do not be alarmed: the sensation will decrease during the first month.

Some degree of firmness or lumpiness under the skin is normal after surgery and will resolve with time. Local #massage of the areas may accelerate the resolution of this problem, which normally takes 2-4 months to disappear completely.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.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting your question and photo.  Your very early in your recovery from facial surgery. You seem to be healing normally after all of the procedures. Liposcution will cause swelling and brusing in the area. Your bruising is resolving by the color in the photo. Make an appointment with your Plastic Surgeon for an examination for reassurance.  Best wishes

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally speaking, it can take 6 to 12 months to completely heal after a facelift procedure.  I would strongly recommend speaking with your surgeon or his/her clinical team to discuss your concerns further.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Slight asymmetry after facelift is expected. If there is significant asymmetry particularly with the extensive bruising it is possible that you have a hematoma that should be drained.

Arnold Almonte, DO · Answer

Hi Vicky7489: the answer is yes. Post op bruising and swelling is completely normal. Liposuction is a traumatic technique and certainly can cause the type of bruising demonstrated in your photos. I'm sure your plastic surgeon's office can provide some basic instruction on how to manage this while you go through the healing stages. 15 days is still early in the overall  healing process. Don't be discouraged.

15 days post op Neck & Facelift with Liposuction, I am sore, lumpy, bruised, and swollen on one side. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Significant asymmetry after facelift should be checked by your own plastic surgeon.

Answer: Significant asymmetry after facelift should be checked by your own plastic surgeon.

Answer: Is post op bruising and swelling normal?

Answer: Is post op bruising and swelling normal?

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

15 days post op Neck & Facelift with Liposuction, I am sore, lumpy, bruised, and swollen on one side. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Significant asymmetry after facelift should be checked by your own plastic surgeon.

Answer: Significant asymmetry after facelift should be checked by your own plastic surgeon.

Answer: Is post op bruising and swelling normal?

Answer: Is post op bruising and swelling normal?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.