Why your face may look strange after a face lift
After a face lift you may notice unexpected changes: the nose looking larger, the chin looking asymmetric, or the cheeks standing out. Much of this is a temporary phenomenon of post-operative swelling and the recovery process. That said, hematoma, fluid collection and changes in facial nerve function can occur, so if symptoms suddenly worsen you should contact your clinic.
1. Why does swelling occur after surgery?
Swelling is a natural response as injured tissue heals. Depending on where fluid collects, the nose, cheeks, jawline or corners of the mouth may look different, and swelling often worsens for the first two to three days after surgery.
2. Can the nose look bigger after surgery?
A face lift does not change the size of the nose itself. The nose can look wider because of swelling around it and in the central face, and because the proportions of the whole face are temporarily altered.
3. Why does swelling under the chin last so long?
The area under the chin and the neck are easily affected by gravity, so fluid can travel downward and pool there. Your clinic may advise wearing a face band, but it should not be fastened too tightly or worn for too long.
4. Why the cheekbones and cheeks look more prominent
When the SMAS layer and descended soft tissue are moved upward and fixed around the cheekbones, the area where tissue gathers can look fuller in early recovery. It tends to look more natural as the swelling subsides.
5. Why facial expressions look unnatural
Swelling, a pulled sensation and reduced sensation can make the facial muscles feel hard to move. However, if one side of the forehead, eye or mouth does not move at all, you should tell your clinic.
6. Why the face looks asymmetric after surgery
The two sides of the face may not swell equally, which can produce temporary asymmetry. But if swelling increases suddenly and rapidly, or is accompanied by severe pain, skin color changes or loss of motor function, contact your medical team immediately.
A face that looks unfamiliar during recovery does not automatically mean the surgery went wrong. What matters is not judging the early-recovery face as the final result, and having your operating team check on you regularly.