Do my Minilift Scars Look As if They Are Progressing Well? (photo)

Facelift scars with railroad tracks in front of the sideburn may require hair transplants to fill in in the future . I almost never use a scar in front of the sideburn since the hair grows backward to expose the scar.

The #scars from a facelift mature within six to twelve months from the surgery date. It is during this time that the rejuvenating effects of the facelift will become apparent and the real result will be seen. We find that scar reducing product, BioCorneum , appears to be very effective. If you have certain concerns about the procedures and #healing process, it is recommended to call your board-certified surgeon or their medical staff and discuss those #concerns.

Your scars are not going to be easy to revise without superficial dermabrading the area and multiple hair transplants to conceal the scars. Usually the incisions are hidden in the hair line and there are no cross hatching marks. I think now is the time to consider starting the revisions.  Sincerely,

David Hansen,MD

I understand, and can see your concern regarding your facelift incisions.  Yes, it is early in the recovery period and the redness should fade somewhat over time.  Certain products can help to reduce the redness, such as application of OTC hydrocortisone cream.  What cannot be corrected is the positioning and placement of your incisions.  Due to the location of the incisions, anterior to the hairline, they will always be noticeable to a certain extent.  The modern facelift approach uses incisions which are specifically placed to camouflage resultant incisional scars while also preserving the sideburn.  Your scars should not have "tracks" on them.  This usually results from an incision which is closed under tension at the skin level.  Facelift incisions are delicate incisions which should be closed without significant tension on the incision lines to prevent widening and resulting "tracks" on the scars.  If you are not happy with your current treatment I suggest you followup with a board certified plastic of facial plastic surgeon with vast experience in facelift surgery.  Good Luck! 

   These facelift scars are early and will likely fade over a year's time but the track marks will remain.  There are many benefits to never making the scar into the anterior or posterior hairline and never altering the sideburn.  Kenneth Hughes, MD HughesPlasticSurgery Los Angeles, CA

Unfortunately, these scars have  a high likelihood of requiring revision. The width of he suture/staple tracks is rather wider than one would hope in such a procedure. However, it would be best to wait a few months before a final decision is made.