Deep plane facelift scars run in the natural creases in front of the ear, around the earlobe and behind the ear into or along the hairline, with a short incision under the chin for the neck. Because the lift is carried by the deeper tissues rather than the skin, the incisions are closed without tension, which helps them heal as fine lines. They typically take 12 to 18 months to mature and fade.
Where the incisions are placed
- In front of the ear: following the natural curve where the ear meets the cheek, or tucked just inside the edge of the small cartilage in front of the ear canal.
- Around the earlobe: running in the crease where the lobe joins the face.
- Behind the ear: in the fold between the back of the ear and the scalp, then curving into the hair or along the hairline.
- Temple: sometimes extended into the hair-bearing temple if lifting of the outer brow or upper cheek is needed.
- Under the chin: a short incision in the natural crease, used to tighten the neck muscles.
The exact placement is tailored to your hairline, ear shape and whether you usually wear your hair up or short.
Why tension matters
Scars stretch and widen when the skin is pulled tight. In a deep plane lift, the supporting layers and the skin are moved together, so the skin is redraped rather than stretched, and only the excess is trimmed. This low-tension closure is intended to reduce widening, avoid distorting the earlobe and help preserve the natural position of the hairline and sideburn.
How facelift scars mature
In the first weeks the scars are pink, slightly raised and may feel firm. From around six weeks they begin to soften. Between three and six months they gradually become flatter and lose their colour, although in darker skin types they can temporarily look darker before fading. By 12 to 18 months most scars have matured into pale, fine lines. The areas behind the ear and in the hair are usually the least noticeable; the section in front of the ear is the most visible and needs the most careful planning.
Caring for your scars
Keep the incisions clean and dry as advised in the first week, and attend stitch removal. Once the skin has fully healed, silicone gel or sheets can help the scar flatten, and gentle massage with a plain moisturiser may reduce firmness. Protect scars from sunlight with a high-factor sunscreen and a hat for at least a year. Stop smoking completely, as nicotine impairs healing. Avoid hair colouring near the incisions until the team says it is safe.
When scars do not settle as hoped
Most facelift scars heal well, but some may stretch, become raised (hypertrophic) or, rarely, form keloids, which grow beyond the original line. Hair loss along an incision in the hairline can occasionally be permanent. If you notice a scar becoming increasingly red, raised, itchy or painful, mention it at your review. Options include steroid injections for raised scars, continued silicone therapy, or scar revision once the scar has matured, typically after at least 12 months.
Hiding scars while they heal
Hair worn down and loose, or a slightly longer cut around the ears, covers most of the incision line. Mineral make-up can usually be applied once the wounds have closed. Men may notice the beard line has shifted slightly behind the ear, which is discussed at consultation. Most people find that by the time they return to work, the scars are discreet enough to be covered easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will people see my facelift scars?
In most people the scars become fine pale lines hidden in natural creases and the hairline. The segment in front of the ear may be visible up close in the first months.
How long do facelift scars take to fade?
Scars usually take 12 to 18 months to mature fully, becoming flatter and paler over that time.
Does a deep plane facelift leave worse scars than a mini facelift?
The incisions are longer because they extend behind the ear and under the chin, but low-tension closure helps them heal well.
Can hair be worn up after a facelift?
Once the scars have matured many people wear their hair up comfortably. Careful placement around the hairline helps.
Are the scars different for men?
The incisions are adapted so that beard-bearing skin is not pulled into the area in front of the ear, and the sideburn position is preserved as far as possible. Mr Nassab will explain the likely placement for your hair and beard pattern.
Can a poor facelift scar be improved?
Yes. Silicone, steroid injections or surgical scar revision can improve many scars once they have matured.
