Uneven Appearance of the Jaw
I am a 32-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing 130 pounds. Back in 2021, I underwent surgery to have a small benign tumor excised from my parotid gland. This procedure led to the development of Frey's syndrome, although I am unsure if that is directly related to my current concerns. Since the operation, the area on the lower jaw extending to my chin appears to be noticeably larger. My surgeon had assured me that the removal of the tumor would restore symmetry to my face; however, I have not observed any improvement in that regard. Could there potentially be another underlying issue that I should discuss with my primary care physician for a referral? Or am I destined to live with this uneven facial appearance indefinitely? There’s no pain, and the swollen area isn’t hard like the previous tumor was. It’s simply frustrating that my appearance hasn’t returned to what I consider normal. For reference, the unaffected side of my face has a lean appearance, while the side with the concern seems as though I’ve added 15 to 20 pounds, lacking any lumps—just a puffiness that I can’t explain.
Answers (1)
3/21/2025, 2:00:49 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing some distress due to the uneven appearance of your jaw following your surgery. It's understandable to seek clarity and reassurance about these changes. The puffiness you describe could be due to several factors related to your past surgery or Frey's syndrome, but there are also other possibilities to consider.
Explanation
After a parotid gland surgery, it's not uncommon for some individuals to notice changes in the facial appearance due to alterations in fat distribution, tissue healing, or even nerve regeneration. Frey's syndrome can sometimes lead to unusual sweating and flushing in the area, which could contribute to perceived puffiness as well. Since there’s no pain or hardness, it's likely that it’s not due to a serious underlying condition, but rather changes related to the surgery.
Next Steps
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Monitor Changes: Take note of any additional changes in size, shape, or sensation on the affected side of your face. Documenting these observations can provide helpful information for your healthcare provider.
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Consider a Consultation: Since you have ongoing concerns about symmetry and facial appearance, it may be beneficial to discuss a referral to a specialist, such as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a dermatologist, who can evaluate the condition in detail and discuss aesthetic options if desired.
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Explore Non-Surgical Options: If the issue is primarily cosmetic, inquire about non-invasive techniques that could help; options may include fillers or radiofrequency treatments.
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Connect with Supportive Communities: Sometimes connecting with others who have undergone similar surgeries can provide comfort and shared experiences that may help you feel less isolated in your journey.
Remember, it’s important to voice your concerns at your next appointment. Your comfort and happiness with your appearance matter, and there may be effective ways to address your concerns. If symptoms change or worsen, or if you have new concerns, don't hesitate to reach out for medical advice sooner.
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