Why did I develop necrosis. How should it be treated?
Asked 2022-12-15
I developed necrosis to the skin flap behind both ears. I have never smoked. The area is black and hard. Should this area be debrided or left to heal untouched. Any idea why this happened. Surgery went well and the flaps had great circulation. Good capillary refill was noted and was assessed at least every 12 hours. I had severe pain in my jaw ear area in the 1st 2 days with the tight wrapping. When the wrapping was changed had 3 sec refill. So what happened? How would you treat this.
Age:
63 years
Weight:
138 lbs
Height:
98.0 inches
Skin Tone:
Light - Medium -
1 answer
Procedure(s)
Thank you so much for your question.
First of all, I am sorry to hear that this is occurring. Skin flap necrosis following a facelift is a known complication and happens a certain percentage of the time despite your lack of risk factors and your surgeon's experience. The treatment for this complication is to leave the area alone and apply antibiotic ointment (neosporin). It should heal in on its own and often will leave a satisfactory appearance. Debridement would be overly aggressive for this issue.
Thank you again for your question and best of luck.