Difference Between Types of Stitches for Facelift?

It does not matter what type of sutures are used on a facelift. One of the three most important things regarding the incisions for a facelift is placement of the incision. Where the incision is placed initially is a very critical factor as to how it will heal. The second critical factor is tension placed on the skin. Wide glide scars ensue when too much tension is placed on the skin, which causes a wind tunnel look. The third most important part of the facelift incision is that the sutures are removed very early to prevent railroad tracking on the incision. In our practice, the sutures on a facelift are all removed on day four so that there is no railroad tracking on the incisions.

Different types of sutures are used by different surgeons and also in different parts of the face.  In front of the ear, I like to use fine hidden sutures that won't leave stitch marks.  Less important in areas where the hair will cover the scars.  Believe it or not, many surgeons use staples in facelifts.

Though possible I doubt that in most cases the type of sutures matter. I have been doing facelifts for more than 25 years. I started with permanent sutures in the SMAS then switched about 13 years ago to absorbable sutures and have noticed no difference. The skill of the surgeon, technique, elasticity of the skin and SMAS, general health of the patient, smoking history, all play a role in the final results and their longevity. Great surgeons get great results more often even though their suture technique may vary.