April 29, 2026 | Facelift
5 minute read
Visible scars can be a major concern for plastic surgery patients, especially for procedures focused on the face. This blog discusses the factors that affect facelift scarring, offers tips to reduce scarring, and outlines scar-healing stages week by week.
Will My Facelift Leave Scars?
Facelifts are the ultimate facial rejuvenation procedures. They combat the most obvious signs of facial aging, such as loose, sagging skin; sagging jowls and cheeks; excess skin around the neck; and deep facial creases. Facelifts are like an all-in-one procedure that seems to turn back the clock like magic.
But it’s not magic—it’s surgery. And the biggest downside of surgery for many patients is the possibility of visible scarring. It’s a natural worry. After all, who wants to invest in their appearance only to have scarring detract from their beautiful result?
Facelift scars are not nearly as obvious or problematic as they may seem, as plastic surgeons have many techniques to reduce the likelihood of scarring. Also, as the patient, you have more control over the matter than you might think. We’ll break down everything you need to know about facelift scars below.
Incision Placement & Sutures
Where there are incisions, there may be scars. Scar tissue is a natural healing response from the body, so wherever your surgeon places your incision (cuts), that’s where the body sends collagen to heal it. This is why plastic surgeons place incisions in the most inconspicuous places possible, as long as they have adequate access to perform the surgery.
Incision placement varies slightly depending on the technique used (e.g., traditional vs. deep plane facelift) and the extent of the revision required. The more work to be done, the larger the scar, typically.
So, how do you hide facial incisions? Facelift incisions are typically hidden within the patient’s hairline and/or around the ears. These placements allow the surgeon to adequately treat the patient and hide any subsequent scars.
Another factor is the surgeon’s expertise in suturing. The good news is that plastic surgeons are trained to care about, well, aesthetics, so neat, uniform sutures are part of the job.
Aftercare
Now it’s your turn. Another major factor in determining the severity of scarring is the patient’s recovery process. There’s nothing that irritates scar tissue and makes it more severe than putting pressure on, pulling at, or placing tension on healing incisions.
While it may be frustrating, it’s essential that you follow all aftercare and recovery instructions to the best of your ability to aid your healing incisions. Exercising too soon, not being gentle with your skin or hair, or otherwise breaking your recovery rules can all result in exaggerated scarring. Listen to your surgeon!
Sun Damage
As your scars heal, and for the foreseeable future, it’s crucial to use sunscreen. Sun damage can exacerbate scar tissue, causing it to appear darker. The goal is to protect your skin as much as possible so that scars can fade and become flat, thin, and light in color. Even though incisions are hidden, an imperceptible scar is a hallmark of a highly successful facelift.
Genetics
Some people are more likely to have large, raised scars, called keloids, than others. If you are more prone to scarring, you’re not necessarily ineligible for surgery, but it’s helpful to discuss this ahead of time with your surgeon so they can advise you on what will get you the best result. While they have little control over your final scarring, they can recommend scar treatments or alternative procedures if needed.
Facelift Scar Healing Stages
Let’s see what facelift scars look like as they progress through the healing process.
Healing Incisions (Weeks 1–2)
At first, your incisions will be red, raised, or bruised. You will likely have some sutures still in, which will be removed within those first two weeks. Follow all aftercare instructions, and be very gentle with your incisions, skin, and hair.
Sealed Incisions (Weeks 3–6)
At this point, your incisions have sealed, meaning they are no longer knitting together. You may have experienced a scabbing and shedding phase. Now, you’re beginning to develop scar tissue, and it may appear firmer, slightly raised, or thicker as the skin heals.
Check with your surgeon, but you may be cleared to start scar care, such as applying silicone sheets or scar cream. Early treatment is key to keeping the skin soft and supple.
Fading Phase (Months 2–6)
With continued care, your scars will begin to soften, flatten, and lighten in color. Any harsh redness or purplish hues should also lessen. Keep in mind that sun damage increases pigmentation in scars, so wear hats and sunscreen whenever possible.
Maturation Phase (Months 6–12)
It can take up to a year for scars to fully mature. At this point, they are thin, white, and easily hidden in the hairline or behind the ear.
How to Minimize Scarring
Your facial plastic surgeon can recommend the best scar treatment for your specific case. Some popular options include:
- Bio-Oil to soften scars
- Silicone sheets
- Scar creams and ointments
- Laser therapy
Is a Facelift Worth It?
The answer is a resounding yes. The benefits of a facelift—a contoured jawline, lifted cheeks, and firmer skin—definitely outweigh the risk of scars, especially for patients who practice good aftercare and scar care. In a few short months, your scars will be nearly invisible, and your facelift results will take center stage.
Want to Learn More About Facelifts in Reno, NV?
Turn back the clock with a revitalizing, natural-looking facelift. Call Bonaldi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery & Med Spa today at (775) 828-7400 or complete the contact form to schedule a consultation.
