Anything You Can Do for Hematoma Lumps and Bumps After Facelift? (photo)

Question

I had a facelift 3 weeks ago and had a Hematoma a couple hours after surgery, My Doctor drained it but as the swelling is slowly going down the lumps and bumps look terrible. I also have a droopy eye. Is there anything I can do to speed recovery? . My Doctor informs me that I look fine at this stage for what I've been through and it will take up to 6 months for them to go down. The thought of looking like an alien for the next 6 months is a little hard to take.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

A hematoma after a facelift is a known complication.  A hematoma that occurs within 3 hours of a procedure is suggestive of a rapidly expanding hematoma, usually associated with high blood pressure.  If this clot is left beneath the skin flaps, fibrosis can occur, which will lead to a lumpy, bumpy look.  Although your Surgeon is correct that this look will resolve over time, certain measures such as steroid injections can help speed the process.  The swelling on the left side of the neck and under the chin depicted in the picture shown may represent a seroma, which is a break down of blood products into a clear, straw colored fluid.  A return visit to your Surgeon is probably the best idea to dicuss  your options and for reassurance.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally speaking, it can take 6 to 12 months to completely heal after surgery. Please keep in touch with your surgeon or his/her clinical team to discuss your ongoing concerns.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Anytime a significant hematoma must be drained this can set back healing at least a few weeks.  The blood is an irritant to the tissues and the swelling that ensues is more significant.  Massage and time will be necessary as well as observation for fluid collections or repeated small hematomas.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

You may experience small lumps and bumps after a facelift which are palpable but typically not visible.  Speak with your surgeon if there are any concerns and see if there are any solutions to improve your early result.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear AlwaysKim,

	
		Little irregularities can occur after facelifts but they are temporary
	
		Try massaging the areas throughout the day to soften them up
	
		3 weeks is still early, you should see some significant changes in the next 2-3 weeks as well
	
		It is hard to see the droopy eye, I would first compare before and after pictures to see what they eye looked like before


	Best regards,

	Nima Shemirani

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Anything You Can Do for Hematoma Lumps and Bumps After Facelift? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Asymmetries After A Facelift

Answer: Asymmetries After A Facelift

Answer: Lumps or bumps after facelift

Answer: Lumps or bumps after facelift

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