If you’re considering getting a facelift procedure then you probably have many questions. One question that is often asked is “Does a facelift leave scars?” Here is the information you need to know about scarring following a facelift.
Why do scars form after surgery?
Whenever the skin is cut, a scar is formed from the damage to the thick, deep layer of skin, otherwise known as the dermis. Bodies produce new collagen fibers to repair the damage to the skin, resulting in scar tissue. The tissue may have a different texture and quality than the surrounding skin. Any procedure that involves incisions is prone to scarring. Some body sculpting surgeries, such as abdominoplasty procedures, require longer incisions that can leave visible scars in the area where the cut was made. Fortunately for those that are considering a facelift, the scars left from the procedure are often minimal and in many cases, entirely concealed.
Experienced cosmetic surgeons will be careful to make the incision along the natural contours of the ear and face. Incisions are strategically made within the hair or hairline to conceal the cut once it has healed. The anatomy of the ear itself works to hide the resulting scars. A skilled, experienced surgeon will work patiently to ensure the incision heals after the surgery with the absolute minimum amount of scarring possible.
Care of the skin following surgery
Post-surgery, it’s important that the patient follows proper wound care steps to help the cuts heal quickly with minimal scarring. The best course of action is to follow the advice of the surgeon. Your surgeon will know your specific case and post-surgical needs. They will also have the experience that comes with multiple successful surgeries and understand the best way to help their patients heal from the procedure. The plastic surgeon can help you make an individualized plan to minimize the appearance of the scars. This plan may include solutions such as laser treatments, Vitamin E, or topical steroid creams.
In addition to the post-surgery care options suggested by your surgeon, you can also speed along your recovery by taking care of yourself. A healthy body and healthy skin can aid in the healing process. Be sure to get plenty of rest, water, and maintain a healthy diet. You should also be careful to keep covered or out of the sun as much as possible to help the scar heal without further damage. Direct sunlight can lighten or darken the scar tissue for up to a year after the procedure. A simple scar massage may also help. Applying pressure with a massage on the scar can help to break up the scar tissue.
Most scars made by surgical procedures will take approximately a year to fully develop. It’s important to address any concerns you have with your surgeon before the procedure and during the healing process. A different course of action may be taken depending on how the scar is healing. Either way, a skilled cosmetic surgeon will do their best to minimize any potential scarring. As far as cosmetic surgeries go, a facelift is one of the least likely procedures to leave a visible scar.
If you have any further questions about facelifts, aftercare and scarring simply contact Dr. Arthur Shektman in Boston on (781) 239-0608 or fill out this online form to schedule your in-person consultation today.