Thick scar tissue which has created a small bulge along my jawline. Will this go away?

Question

Hi doctors. I had a small area of my jaw lipo 9 months ago. In the first 2 month, my smile was crooked, but I have now regain all function. However, underneath my skin, I have developed a weird sensation that feels like thick scar tissue which has created a small bulge along my jawline. Could my nerves be stretched and injured? Will this go away? Thank you

Jane M. Rowley, MD · Answer

Liposuction under the chin is very safe, along the jawline you have to be more careful.  It sounds like you did have an injury to the marginal mandibular nerve which thankfully has resolved.  The thick are you are describing could be scar or residual fat.  Regardless if you are not happy with your result at nine months post op you should visit with your plastic surgeon. Jane

Larry Lickstein, MD · Answer

As my colleagues have suggested, the mass along your jawline could be scar tissue or residual adipose tissue.  Alternatively, it could be related to the way the skin loosened by liposuction settled down after your procedure and after the swelling resolved.  It is very likely that this can be improved through a revision, and I would encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  Best of luck!

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

A small bulge along the jawline is potentially scar tissue or a combo of fat and scar tissue.It does not sound like a neuroma which is a painful nerve lump.  It sounds like your mandibular nerve was stretched 9 months ago, but this is a movement nerve and very, very small nerve and not one to ball up.Have a recheck with your doctor.Best wishes.

Thick scar tissue which has created a small bulge along my jawline. Will this go away?

Answers (3)