Facial skin flap surgery, how long does it take to reach final appearance?

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It's two months now since a lesion was removed from my left nasal alar. A skin flap rotation was made from my cheek. There is still a pronounced lump, the whole area of the flap is raised and domed. So far I haven't had any follow-up appointment, they keep getting re-scheduled. 

People are asking me if this is the way it will always look, or will the swelling reduce over time. I can't answer because this hasn't been explained to me. I was told it will take six months or longer for the scar to fade but nothing was said about the lump. Is it likely that the swelling will reduce further, or is the way I look now permanent?

  • Hi Gary

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community. I hope you find it supportive.

    My name is Paula and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    Wound healing is a complicated process and often takes time.  There are periods of time when areas initially look worse before they get better. Your oncologist or surgical team are best placed to physically assess what is going on and help manage any unwanted symptoms. 

    At various points throughout healing or even once healing is complete, additional interventions may be suggested to optimize the outcome to get the best cosmetic result. I would suggest you contact your team today so that the follow up appointment can be rearranged so that your consultant can see what the wound is doing.

    Your specialist nurse is also there to help you regarding any queries.  You can contact your consultant by ringing their secretary which can be done through using the main switchboard at the hospital if you don’t have a direct number.

    I hope that his information helps.

    Best wishes and take care,

    Paula (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email or webchat.

    Ref: KS/PL