I'm 9 Weeks Post Op Following a Face/neck Lift with Significate Pain Around my Ears, Face and Neck (Under Entire Jaw Line)?

   Although this may only be temporary, Neurontin or Lyrica may be beneficial during the recovery period.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

What you describe could be a form of neuralgia. Neuralgia results from irritation to a nerve, and can be caused by trauma to an area, including surgery. Symptoms may appear as follow:

1) Your skin may be more sensitive in the area of the irritated nerve
2) You may have sharp shooting pains along the affected nerve
3) You may feel numbness along the nerve

 

Anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen or ibuprofen may help, and there are also specific medications that can address the neuralgia.  This is an issue that usually takes care of itself fairly quickly, and the best thing you can do for now is control the pain and symptoms of the condition.  At this point, I would recommend following up with your surgeon to discuss your symptoms. He or she may be able to recommend some treatment options or provide a referral to a pain specialist that will make you more comfortable. Thanks and good luck!