There are various approaches and techniques for performing a facelift, each tailored to the specific needs of the patient and the degree of correction desired. Some of the most common types are:
Involves incisions that start at the hairline and continue around the ear, allowing the surgeon to access a large area of the face for a comprehensive lift.
Uses an endoscopic camera to guide the surgeon through smaller incisions, resulting in less visible scars and faster recovery times. However, not everyone is a candidate for an endoscopic facelift, as it is recommended only for those without excessive skin laxity, making skin removal unnecessary.
Indicated for individuals with mild to moderate signs of aging who seek a less extensive surgery. This procedure uses smaller incisions and focuses on specific areas of the face, such as the jawline and neck. While the results are not as dramatic as a traditional or endoscopic facelift, the recovery is much easier.
One of the most common concerns for those considering a facelift is how the scars will look. Facelift scars are usually hidden within the hairline (between the hair and the upper part of the ear) and are strategically concealed within the hair, around the ears, and in the natural folds of the skin. Over time, these scars become white and barely noticeable.
After surgery, it is crucial to follow the surgeon’s instructions on how to properly care for facelift scars.
It is important to keep the wound clean and dry, as well as to be very careful and gentle when washing your hair, always drying with cool air or by gently patting with a soft towel. Additionally, during the first year, it is essential to avoid sun exposure to prevent any kind of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Your medical team might also recommend some topical treatments to accelerate healing.
While it is natural to worry about the visibility of scars after a facelift, they become less noticeable over time as they heal and fade. Moreover, scars strategically placed within the hairline and around the ears are designed to minimize visibility, even in the first few months.
In any surgery, scars are inevitable. However, in a facelift, they can be minimized thanks to the surgeon’s experience and skill in strategically hiding them. Proper postoperative care also plays a crucial role in the final appearance of the scars.