Facelift Scars - What to Expect
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The telltale signs of aging are worn on our faces. Thanks to a facelift, winkles can be smoothed away and sagging skin can be tightened up. It’s one of the most popular facial rejuvenation options at the Landings Surgical Centre, helping countless people in Halifax, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island look years younger.
Dr. Richard Bendor-Samuel and Dr. Louis Boileau both take time to discuss proper aftercare following any procedure in order to prevent serious scars and other complications. Below, let’s take a moment to consider scarring after facelift and what patients can expect.
Where Are Facelift Incisions Located?
During a facelift, the incisions are typically located around the ear area. The surgeon carefully follows the natural contours along the edge of the ear. The incision typically starts around the jawline and reaches up into the side of the hairline. In some cases, the incision can extend a bit below/around the ear.
Will Scars Be Visible After Surgery?
Generally no.
Because surgeons follow the natural contour of the ear, the scar is well-hidden and hard to notice. Similarly, the extension of the incision is concealed by the hairline and natural contours of the ear area.
When done right, someone would need to know what to look for in order to notice the incisions from a facelift.
Preventing Major Scars Through Good Pre-Planning
In order to prevent serious scarring, plastic surgeons meet with patients and discuss the procedure with them in a pre-op consultation. This allows surgeons to find out if patients have had notable issues with scars in the past. This includes a history of keloid scars and so forth.
If a patient has had past issues with upraised or visible scarring, the facelift approach can be altered. Our cosmetic surgeons will do their best to minimize the risk of visible scarring and ensure the best results possible.
Caring for Scars Immediately After Surgery
Immediately after a facelift, patients should get ample rest and avoid heavy lifting, bending at the waist, and strenuous physical activity. Patients should not pick at or scratch the incisions sites after surgery in order to prevent infection and scarring.
Additionally, patients should avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages as both can lead to slow healing times. Hot tubs, hot showers, and saunas should also be avoided given how these humid and steamy environments can cause inflammation and negatively affect the incision areas.
Long-Term Aftercare of Facelift Scars
Once the scars have healed, patients should use good facial moisturizers to maintain healthy skin of the face. Sunblock should be used on the face whenever you go outdoors in order to prevent sun damage and the scars becoming more visible.
While the incision areas may be somewhat visible in the initial months, they should fade significantly by the end of the year. They will continue to fade in the years ahead with proper aftercare.
What If I Have Visible Scars After Facelift?
If scarring around the ear area is visible, there are numerous options for scar revision that can be considered. Over-the-counter products are available to help minimize scar visibility. If these are unsuccessful, professional scar revision techniques can be discussed.
Contact the Landings Surgical Centre
For more information about facial rejuvenation and what to expect for aftercare and long-term results, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic plastic surgeon. You can reach us by phone in Halifax at (866) 602-9620.
