Minor facelift scars are a natural part of the healing process after facial surgery, and how they heal can vary quite a bit depending on your skin type, the surgical technique, and how well you care for them.
While incisions are carefully placed in discreet areas, such as around the ears or along the hairline, proper care in the months after surgery can have a big influence on how those scars mature over time.
What happens to the skin after a facelift?
Facelift surgery involves working through layers of tissue, tightening and repositioning deeper structures before closing the skin. Since this process requires incisions, the skin will need time to repair and rebuild itself.
Once the procedure has been performed, your body begins its natural repair process. This starts with inflammation, where blood and nutrients are sent to the incision sites to support healing. The next stage is the proliferation phase, where new collagen forms to rebuild the damaged skin. Finally, during maturation, this collagen reorganises and strengthens, gradually allowing the scars to fade and soften in texture.
This process typically takes several months, and in some cases up to a year. During this time, the incisions will likely change in appearance. They may start off red or slightly raised, before flattening and lightening as collagen continues to remodel. This is all normal and expected, though how each person heals will always differ slightly.
How should you care for your facelift scars straight after surgery?
In the first week or two, the main focus should be on protecting your incisions and reducing swelling.
During this initial stage, you’ll need to avoid getting the area too wet. Light cleaning is fine if your surgeon allows it, but soaking or washing the face too aggressively can interfere with healing. The same goes for any products that aren’t recommended – avoid applying creams or ointments unless they’ve been specifically suggested for you.
Sleeping with your head elevated is also encouraged, as it helps to reduce swelling and prevent fluid from pooling near the incisions. Even small adjustments like using extra pillows can make a difference in how comfortable your recovery feels in the early stages.
When can you start applying scar treatments?
Once your incisions have closed completely and any dressings or stitches have been removed, you may be able to start applying topical scar treatments.
Most surgeons will recommend waiting at least a few weeks before introducing any products to the area. Silicone-based gels or sheets are commonly suggested since they create a thin barrier over the scar, helping to keep it hydrated and minimising redness as it heals.
Skincare during recovery should stay simple. Using harsh exfoliants or strong actives can irritate the incision sites and delay proper healing.
How does sun exposure affect facelift scars?
UV exposure can significantly affect how facelift scars mature, particularly during the first six to 12 months. Fresh scars are more vulnerable to discolouration, and sunlight can cause them to darken or become more noticeable. Protecting the incision sites from direct sunlight is essential, even once they start to fade.
Wearing a broad-brimmed hat, seeking shade when outdoors, and using sunscreen once the area is healed are simple but effective steps. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is generally recommended, though you should always wait until your surgeon confirms it’s okay to apply sunscreen directly to your scars. Until then, physical protection like clothing or hats is best.
Can facial massage techniques help with facelift scars?
Gentle massage can help promote circulation and assist the tissue in healing more evenly, though timing is important. You shouldn’t start massaging your scars until your surgeon confirms it’s appropriate. When introduced at the right stage, massage can help soften the tissue, reduce tightness, and improve flexibility around the incision sites.
Usually, a light circular motion using your fingertips is enough, and it should never be painful or forceful. Over time, this can also help break down small areas of firmness that may form under the skin during healing. Always use clean hands and, if recommended, a suitable moisturiser or silicone-based gel to avoid friction.
How long does it take for facelift scars to fade?
The timeline for scar fading varies, but most patients notice that facelift scars start to soften and become less visible after three to six months. In some cases, subtle changes continue for up to a year or longer. Genetics, age, skin tone, and how well the incisions were cared for all play a part in how they eventually appear.
Even though scars can take time to mature, most are well-concealed in natural facial creases or along the hairline. If any areas remain raised or discoloured after several months, your surgeon may discuss additional treatments, such as laser therapy, to help improve the appearance of the scar tissue.
What should you discuss with your surgeon about scar healing?
It’s always helpful that you speak openly with your surgeon about any concerns regarding your facelift scars. During follow-up appointments, they can assess how the tissue is healing and offer tailored guidance. They may recommend specific products or treatments, depending on the stage of recovery and how your scars are responding.
It’s also important that you let your surgeon know if you notice any changes such as redness, thickening, or tenderness that seems unusual. While mild tightness or slight itching is normal, any significant changes should always be checked. Early intervention can make a difference in preventing scar tissue from becoming raised or stretched.
What can you expect once your scars have fully healed?
Once healing is complete, facelift scars typically become faint lines that blend well with the surrounding skin. While they will never disappear completely, they tend to become much less noticeable with time. Many patients find that by one year after surgery, their scars have flattened and lightened significantly.
At this point, maintaining general skin health can continue to support scar fading. Keeping the area moisturised, protecting it from sun exposure, and avoiding unnecessary irritation will help the tissue continue to remodel and strengthen.
Plastic Surgeon Dr Norris: Facelift Procedures at Form & Face Sydney
At Form & Face, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Benjamin Norris has decades of experience in performing a variety of cosmetic procedures.
If you’re considering facelift surgery, it’s important that you choose a surgeon with extensive experience in facial procedures, particularly one who understands the importance of incision placement and scar management. They’ll not only perform the surgery with precision but also guide you through aftercare in detail. A consultation is the best place to discuss how your facelift scars will be managed, what recovery will involve, and how to achieve the best possible long-term results.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr Norris, please contact our team in Sydney (Bondi Junction) or Bella Vista!
Further reading about facelift surgery in Sydney:
- The main Form & Face facelift surgery page
- Dr Norris’ mini facelift procedure page
- Form & Face neck lift (platysmaplasty) procedure page
- Our blog: What’s the best age for facelift surgery?
- Our blog: How to sleep better after a facelift?
Facelift medical references: