Technical Explanation of the Condition
Facelift scars in Sydney are a common concern for patients considering facelift surgery (rhytidectomy). Although facelift techniques aim to place incisions in discreet locations, every facelift involves scarring. For this reason, it is important to understand where scars sit, how they heal, what is considered normal, and how patients can optimise scar quality.
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS) performs facelift surgery in Sydney with careful incision placement and meticulous closure techniques designed to support refined scarring. During consultation, Dr Tim explains incision patterns, expected scar evolution, and evidence-based scar care. Importantly, scars mature differently between individuals.
Where Are Facelift Scars Located?
Modern facelift incisions are designed to hide scars within natural contours of the face and hairline. Although incision patterns vary, facelift scars commonly sit:
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within the hairline (selected techniques / temporal region)
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in front of the ear (following natural creases)
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around the earlobe
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behind the ear (postauricular crease)
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into the hairline behind the ear
In selected patients, Dr Tim may also use a small incision:
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under the chin (submental incision), typically when neck contouring is required
Because incision design depends on anatomy and surgical goals, scar placement is confirmed during consultation.
What Do Facelift Scars Look Like Over Time?
Facelift scars do not “disappear”; however, they usually become significantly less visible over time. Scar maturation occurs in stages.
Early healing (0–6 weeks)
Patients commonly experience:
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redness along incision lines
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mild lumpiness or firmness
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itchiness or tightness
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swelling around the ears and hairline
At this stage, scars often look worse before they look better.
Intermediate phase (6 weeks–6 months)
During this period:
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redness gradually fades
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texture becomes smoother
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scar edges soften
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firmness reduces
Mature scars (6–18 months)
Over time, scars typically:
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lighten further
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flatten
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blend into surrounding skin
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become easier to conceal
However, some patients develop thicker or more pigmented scars. For this reason, Dr Tim provides tailored scar care advice.
Factors That Influence Facelift Scar Quality
Several factors affect scar quality. Some are controllable, and others relate to biology.
Common influences include:
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genetics and natural scar tendency
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skin type and pigment (risk of hyperpigmentation)
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incision tension and tissue quality
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smoking or nicotine exposure
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sun exposure during healing
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infection or delayed wound healing
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compliance with post-operative scar care
Importantly, Dr Tim’s technique matters — but so does patient aftercare.
How Dr Tim Designs Facelift Incisions to Minimise Visible Scars
Dr Tim reduces visible scarring by:
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placing incisions in natural creases and hidden folds
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aligning incisions with hairline direction where possible
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avoiding unnecessary tension on the skin closure
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preserving blood supply to support healing
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using meticulous layered closure techniques
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planning incision placement based on haircut/hairline patterns
In addition, Dr Tim aims to avoid distortion of:
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the tragus
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the earlobe
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the hairline
This aesthetic detail often determines whether a facelift looks “natural.”
Scar Care After a Facelift: What Helps?
Patients often ask what they can do to improve scars. Consistent scar care makes a difference.
Scar management may include:
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keeping wounds clean and dry early
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avoiding nicotine / smoking
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using silicone gel or silicone sheets (as advised)
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gentle scar massage once healed (if recommended)
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sun protection (hat + sunscreen once safe)
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medical scar treatments for raised scars (selected patients)
Because scar protocols depend on healing progress, Dr Tim individualises advice during follow-up.
When Should You Be Concerned About Facelift Scars?
Most redness and firmness is normal early on. However, patients should contact the clinic if they notice:
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increasing pain or swelling in one area
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pus-like discharge
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worsening redness spreading beyond the incision
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persistent wound breakdown
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fever or systemic symptoms
In addition, Dr. Tim monitors for scar issues, such as hypertrophic scarring, during follow-up appointments.
Can Facelift Scars Be Revised?
In some cases, patients may benefit from scar refinement. However, Dr Tim generally recommends waiting until scars mature.
Scar improvement options (selected patients) may include:
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scar revision surgery
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steroid injection for hypertrophic scarring
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laser scar management
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pigment correction treatments
Dr Tim discusses options when appropriate and safe.
Suitability and Realistic Expectations
Facelift scars are an inevitable part of facelift surgery. However, with modern techniques and good scar care, scars typically become discreet and blend well with time.
Suitability for facelift surgery in Sydney is confirmed during consultation.
Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.
Safety, training and professional standards
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).
Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.
