As with any type of surgery, a facelift does leave scars.  However, today’s cosmetic surgery techniques are more advanced than ever.  After a facelift, scars may be located in various places on the face depending upon the procedure and the particular plastic surgeon.  These scars will begin to fade after a few weeks and should be undetectable after one to three months.  The most common facelift scares are found around the ear and beneath the chin.

Scars in the Traditional Facelifts

Since the incisions in traditional facelift procedures are at the hairline, scare are usually well concealed.  Also, plastic surgeons are trained to minimize scar formation using special sutures (stitches) placed underneath the skin.  Surgeons also use adhesive strips to push the edges of the incision together to promoted healing.

Scars in Limited Facelifts

Plastic surgeons can also place incisions under the ear or chin in neck lifts.  Also they can try to place incisions in folds along the face or by the eyelid so as to be unnoticeable.  The advantage is that these procedures require smaller incisions so scars will not be as noticeable.

Scars in Endoscopic Facelifts

The incisions in endoscopic facelifts are much smaller than in traditional facelifts.  For this reason they are easier to conceal and do not have to be along the hairline.  These procedures are particularly effective at getting rid of sagging or old skin around the nose and mouth.

Preventing Scar Formation

It is important that patients avoid smoking, alcohol, or sun exposure two or three weeks before or after surgery so as not to affect wound healing.  Also, make sure you follow up with your plastic surgeon as instructed.  Talk to a board-certified, licensed plastic surgeon regarding scar formation from your facelift.