Is this normal healing or should I be concerned about my facelift scars nearly 2 years later? (Photos)

Question

Hi doctors — nearly 2 years ago, I had a deep plane facelift. Since then, I haven't been able to comfortably wear my hair up due to how visible and prominent my scars are. The scar under my chin is, in my opinion, quite bad — and the ones near my ears, although technically hidden in the hairline, are sunken or depressed, which actually makes them more noticeable. I’m trying to figure out: is this just how these scars typically heal after a deep plane lift, or is this something that could have been avoided or might still be improved? Am I overreacting — or is this outcome below expectations? Photos attached. Thank you for your insight.

Brian M. Harmych, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Nearly two years after surgery, your scars are considered mature, so what you are seeing now is likely a close representation of their long-term appearance without additional treatment. While well-placed facelift scars are typically concealed within natural creases or the hairline, some patients do experience more visible scarring, particularly if the skin healed with more pigment change, contour irregularity, or depression.

From the limited view provided in your photo, the submental incision appears to have healed acceptably. The temporal incision, however, would likely benefit from scar revision, and based on what I can see, this revision would probably be minor. This is not an inevitable or “typical” outcome after a deep plane facelift, and there are options to improve both the appearance and contour of these scars even at this stage. Treatments might include surgical scar revision, laser resurfacing, microneedling, or filler placement to correct depression. Based on your description, improvement is likely possible, and a consultation in person with a facial plastic surgeon who routinely performs revision work could help determine the best approach.

I hope you find my answer helpful.

Mark Beaty, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The healing of facelift scars depends on a combination of factors—both the way the surgeon closes the incisions and how your body naturally heals. Even patients who undergo the same procedure with the same surgeon can experience very different scar visibility and outcomes.

If your scars continue to concern you, options such as scar revision may be considered, though it’s important to have realistic expectations. A revision can sometimes make a scar less noticeable, but in some cases, it may not improve the appearance—or could even make it more noticeable. For your temporal scar, camouflage tattooing may offer a good solution. The scar under your chin is in a discreet location and is unlikely to be visible to others unless you are tall and regularly have others looking up at you. If this area still bothers you, discussing potential treatments with your surgeon could help, though in many cases, leaving it alone is a reasonable option.

Anya Costeloe, DO · Answer

Hi, thanks for your question and photos. It looks like the scar at your hairline is slightly widened and depressed. I recommend following up with your surgeon. A revision and meticulous closure without tension can help improve the appearance of the scar. It is difficult to understand the orientation of the scars from the other two photos, and the photos aren't very clear - but I would also recommend following up with your facelift surgeon. I hope this helps!

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Please present these issues to your facelift surgeon who will likely offer you filler and/or segmental revision and/or laser treatment as potential solutions.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You have a widened scar along the temporal hairline. The other photos I don’t know where those scars are. A secondary revision to revise the temporal scars would be simple to do and provide some improvement

Is this normal healing or should I be concerned about my facelift scars nearly 2 years later? (Photos)

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Is this normal healing or should I be concerned about my facelift scars nearly 2 years later? (Photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Facelift Scars

Answer: Facelift Scars

Answer: Facelift scars

Answer: Facelift scars

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Deep Plane Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.