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Understanding Facelift Scars: What to Expect and How to Minimize Them

You’re considering a facelift cosmetic procedure, but you’re worried about ‘How will post-operative facelift scars look?’ This worry is common for anyone thinking about this surgery.

If you’ve found the right surgeon for cosmetic surgery in Turkey to help you look younger and feel refreshed, there’s no need to worry. Skilled Turkish surgeons use modern techniques to make surgical marks less visible over time.

Types of Face lifting Scars

Face lift surgery comes in different types, depending on the areas of sagging on the patient’s face and the surgeon’s techniques. Naturally, the incisions will vary based on the method chosen by the doctor. Let’s discuss the location, size, and appearance of operation lines for each type of face lifting.

SMAS Facelift Scars

When a surgeon performs this technique, incisions are located along the patient’s hairline and around the ears. These surgical marks follow the hairline and extend in an S-shape before and behind the ears. If the surgeon also tightens the neck during the procedure, a neck lift is included, which may result in a scar under the chin.

Deep Plane Face lift Scars

The location of incision lines with this technique is the same as with the SMAS operation. However, the cuts in a deep plane facelift are deeper. This method allows the surgeon to reach the deeper layers of the patient’s skin and more effectively reduce tightness around the ears.

Mini Facelift Scars

With a mini facelift, the post-operative marks are shorter than average. Since this minimally invasive technique offers a faster recovery than traditional face lifting, it is an excellent option for patients seeking subtle improvements with less downtime.

Mini surgery is suitable for patients under 40 who show mild signs of ageing on their faces.

How Long Does It Take for Scars to Heal After a Facelift?

The fading of scars after cosmetic surgery depends on the patient’s age, genetics, and skin type. However, the final stages of scar maturation can take up to two years. Most patients notice that surgical marks become significantly less visible after about six months.

Slight puffiness or discolouration might appear within two weeks after the procedure. This is entirely normal and part of the body’s natural healing process. Facelift scars after 2 weeks; you’ll likely see that the wounds are flatter and less noticeable.

Face lifting Scar Healing Timeline

1–3 Months after Surgery:

  • Scars may appear red, firm, and raised.
  • You might feel slight itching or discomfort around the incision areas.

3–6 Months after Surgery:

  • Surgical traces start to flatten and soften.
  • Redness gradually fades over time.

6–12 Months after Surgery:

  • Healing areas continue to mature and become less noticeable.
  • The final appearance of scars is usually achieved around one year.

Recovery times can differ between individuals. Following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions is crucial to achieving the best results. We recommend reviewing facelift scars before and after photosto learn more about this topic.

Where Does Our Surgeon Place Facelift Scars?

At Yaman Surgical Hospital, our plastic surgeon strategically places incisions to minimize the visibility of operation lines. Most surgical marks are hidden within the hairline and around the natural curves near the ears. This approach keeps the surgical traces discreet and allows them to heal out of sight.

Thanks to the careful placement of incisions, there’s no need to worry about noticeable surgical marks. If you’re having a lower face lifting, you may have post-surgery marks behind your ears. These recovery lines will be hidden within the natural folds behind your ears, making them virtually invisible to others.

For a more limited face lifting, the incisions are usually shorter and placed along the natural curves of the ear, continuing behind it. This positioning allows the surgeon to lift and firm the skin in the lower face and neck while keeping scars hidden.

NEXT READ: Facelift Cost in Turkey: Affordable, High-Quality Cosmetic Surgery in Turkey

Male Face lift Scars

At Yaman Surgical Hospital, we ensure that face lift scars for male patients blend seamlessly with their natural hair patterns and typically shorter hairstyles.

The incisions are carefully placed along the natural beard line or the folds around the ears to keep them discreet.

This meticulous approach minimizes the visibility of surgical marks while helping our male patients achieve a natural and refreshed appearance.

Tips for Minimizing Surgical Marks:  How to Hide Facelift Scars?

Here are some suggestions to help reduce surgical traces after a face lifting:

  • Post-Surgery Care: Follow your surgeon’s instructions closely to ensure proper healing. You’ll receive detailed guidance on cleaning your incisions, when to apply ointments, and ways to reduce swelling. Protecting the surgical area from the sun is also crucial for optimal recovery.
  • Scar Reduction Treatments: Once your incisions have healed, you can use silicone-based gels, products containing vitamin E, or other scar-reducing treatments. Always consult your surgeon before starting any new therapy.
  • Please refrain from Smoking: It’s essential to avoid smoking before and after surgery to achieve the best results.

Should I Massage Facelift Scars? Massaging newly healed incision sites can help reduce tissue buildup and soften the surrounding skin. However, never massage an open wound or the surrounding area, as this can cause infections and pain. Always ensure the scar is fully healed before starting any massage.

Our surgeons provide a personalized care plan to guide you every step of the way during your recovery.

Book an Online Consultation for Facelift in Turkey

A face lift can significantly boost confidence by reducing signs of ageing. By choosing an experienced plastic surgeon and carefully following pre- & post-operative care instructions, you can achieve a rejuvenated look without concerns about scarring.

 If you’d like to learn more about facelift scars or take the next step, we invite you to schedule a consultation.