Background:
The growing population of aging patients who have received head or neck radiation has brought attention to the unique considerations for surgical face lifts. Tissue fibrosis and impaired microcirculation can compromise wound healing and increase overall complication rates. Our review of the literature identified few reported cases of postradiation face lifts.
Methods:
Three patients who underwent postradiation face lift procedures were identified within two senior surgeons’ practices. Patient demographics, medical history, surgical technique, postoperative course, and photographs were obtained. Complications were analyzed, including infections, hematomas, seromas, wound dehiscence, delayed healing, necrosis, nerve injuries, poor scarring, and systemic events.
Results:
None of the patients experienced immediate or major complications. All patients reported satisfaction with the procedure. One patient required a revision of the earlobe.
Conclusions:
Our limited series suggests that with a comprehensive approach and a deliberate surgical technique, safe and desirable outcomes may be achieved in the appropriately selected patient. We outline perioperative considerations to assist surgeons in caring for these patients. Additional research is necessary to assess the impact of patient and therapeutic variables.