If you’re considering a neck lift, you’re probably wondering: will the scars be visible? Will they fade? The truth is, while every neck lift involves some degree of scarring, proper surgical technique and post-operative care can make those scars nearly invisible.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. John Reilly helps patients achieve natural-looking neck rejuvenation with minimal scarring. In this article, we’ll explain exactly where neck lift scars are placed, how they heal, and what you can do to make them as discreet as possible.
If you’re looking to enhance your neckline, book a consultation with Dr. John Reilly today. With over 20 years of experience and recognition from Castle Connolly and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, he creates results that look elegant, lifted, and undeniably you.
Do Neck Lifts Leave Scars?
All neck lifts will leave some surgical scarring, but with the right technique, neck lift scars can be camouflaged and minimal.
The visibility of scars depends on your skin type, healing response, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. While they may be slightly noticeable in the early stages of healing, most scars will fade significantly over time.
Where Are Neck Lift Scars Located?
Neck lift scars are usually placed behind the ear and along a portion of the scalp line. Some patients may require an incision just behind the chin crease to address issues in the central neck area.
These incisions are carefully placed to hide the scars within natural skin folds and hairlines, making them far less noticeable. In most cases, the wounds are not visible during normal conversation or daily activities.
What Do Neck Lift Scars Look Like?
Neck lift scars typically heal very nicely in most patients:
- The scar underneath the chin is invisible at a conversational distance and tends to be very pale, thin, and flat.
- Scars behind the ear in the crease also are not visible at a conversational distance and heal very well over time.
- Some patients, when wearing their hair up, may notice a fine white line along the bottom hairline, which can be covered with various grooming techniques.
In the first few weeks to a couple of months following surgery, some scars—especially those along the scalp line or in the ear crease—may be raised or somewhat reddened. These almost always flatten and become pale over time.
Factors That Affect Scar Formation
Scar formation is the body’s natural response to any type of injury, including surgical incisions. It’s common to have some swelling and thickening at the site of the incision. Your body will gradually heal this over time.
Some patients may have a genetic predisposition to forming thicker scars, such as keloids. Fortunately, there are treatments available to improve these outcomes.
How to Minimize Scars After A Neck Lift
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is the best way to ensure your neck lift scars heal properly and remain as discreet as possible. After surgery, patients receive detailed care instructions to support their healing. These typically include:
- Avoiding sun exposure
- Using silicone tape or other silicone-based products to reduce scar thickness and discoloration
In some cases, your surgeon may recommend treatments like microneedling or laser therapy to improve the appearance of scars as they heal. While these options can be helpful, it’s important to understand that no treatment can completely remove scars or make them totally invisible.
Common Questions about Neck Lift Scars
Can scars be completely removed after a neck lift?
The short answer is no. Scars are made of scar tissue, which is different from skin, and will always have some visibility.
Are some people more prone to visible scarring?
Yes. Some patients have a genetic predisposition to more aggressive scars.
Can makeup cover neck lift scars?
Yes, but it is often unnecessary. Neck lift scars tend to be minimal and located in areas that are not visible at a conversational distance.
Will a revision neck lift create new scars?
Likely, no. The same incisions can be used again in the same location.
Rejuvenate Your Neckline with A Neck Lift from Dr. John Reilly
A neck lift with Dr. Reilly can restore a smoother, more defined profile without drawing attention to scars. With his years of experience and precise technique, you’ll enjoy refined, discreet results with minimal long-term scarring.
Book your consultation with Dr. John Reilly today and get the refreshed, elegant neckline you’ve always wanted.