Does Neck Lift Surgery Leave Scars? When Does It Heal?

As we age, sagging, loosening, and wrinkles in the neck area become visible. This can negatively affect the youthful and vibrant appearance of the face. Therefore, neck lift surgery aims to tighten the neck and jawline by providing an effective solution to these problems. However, when it comes to cosmetic surgery, one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “Will there be scars?” and “How long does the healing process take?” To answer these questions, we have created the content “Does Neck Lift Surgery Leave Scars? When Does It Heal?” You can find answers to all your questions by browsing our content. We wish you all healthy days and enjoyable reading.

How Neck Lift Scars Occur

Neck lift scars are a natural result of the incisions made during surgery and are a necessary step for the surgeon to remove excess skin and tissue from the neck area and tighten the muscles. These incisions typically start at the front of the ear, extend behind the ear, and reach the hairline, ensuring that the scars are hidden within natural contours. Furthermore, because the skin is lifted and reshaped during surgery, collagen production increases in this area as the body heals, resulting in scars that are initially pink or red in color. As the skin fully heals, the scar tissue matures, and the scars gradually become finer and paler. Furthermore, skin type, age, genetic factors, the suturing technique used by the doctor, and the individual's diligence in post-operative care directly affect the visibility of the scars. In this context, when proper care is taken, neck lift scars generally become thin, inconspicuous, and blend in with natural wrinkle lines.

Where are the Scars For a Neck Lift Most Commonly Positioned?

There are certain areas where scars may be visible after neck lift surgery. To elaborate on these areas in detail, they are as follows:

• The natural crease in front of the ear: This area is an ideal line for concealing incisions because the natural crease camouflages the scars. After healing, the scar can be easily covered with makeup or hair.

• The lower part of the earlobe: This area is often where incisions are made to balance tension. Once healing is complete in this area, the scars usually remain as very fine lines.

• Lines and creases behind the ear: The creases behind the ear are one of the best areas for hiding surgical scars. Therefore, the scars are often invisible when viewed from the outside.

• The line extending from behind the ear to the hairline: When the neck skin needs to be tightened, the incision is extended along this line. However, the hairline allows the scars to be naturally concealed.

• The chin area (small incision line made when necessary): If fat removal or muscle tightening is required, a small incision can be made under the chin. This way, the scar is not very noticeable because the area is in the shadow.

• The fine incision area at the beginning of the scalp: The incision may extend to the scalp to balance the tightness of the neck. At the same time, thanks to the hair roots, these scars become almost invisible.

What Are the Neck Lift Scar Healing Stages?

The recovery stages following neck lift surgery are divided into four categories. These are: Initial recovery stage (0-2 weeks), Early maturation stage (2 weeks - 3 months), Intermediate maturation stage (3-6 months), and Full maturation stage (6 months - 1 year and beyond). If we examine these stages individually:

Initial healing phase (0-2 weeks)

During this period, swelling, slight bruising, and a feeling of tightness are most noticeable. As the incisions are new, the scars appear pinkish-red and fresh. However, with dressing changes, suture care, and the use of a neck brace, healing progresses rapidly.

Early maturation phase (2 weeks to 3 months)

At this stage, the stitches are completely closed, bruises disappear, and scars begin to fade to a lighter tone. On the other hand, scars may still be visible due to increased collagen production, but regular use of cream and sun protection play a critical role in lightening scars.

Mid-maturation phase (3-6 months)

During this process, the scars gradually become a thin line and begin to appear more compatible with the skin texture. Both the tightening effect on the neckline takes on a more natural form and a noticeable fading of the scars is observed.

Complete maturation phase (6 months- 1 year and beyond)

This is the period when scars fade the most; the pink or red tone disappears completely and the scar approaches the skin color. At the end of a year, scars generally take on a fine appearance that blends in with natural contours and is not noticeable unless looked at closely.

Causes of Neck Lift Scars

There are several main reasons for the scars that form after a neck lift procedure. If we look at these reasons in detail, they are as follows:

• The inevitability of surgical incisions
• The skin's natural healing process producing scar tissue
• Genetic predisposition and personal skin type
• The suturing technique used during surgery
• The age factor affecting the speed of wound healing
• Reduced blood circulation due to smoking
• Sun exposure during the postoperative period
• Movements that cause tension on the suture line
• Inadequate or improper wound care
• Scar tissue associated with previous surgeries in the area

Solutions for Neck Lift Scars

There are several solutions available to reduce the appearance of scars after a neck lift procedure. By exploring these solutions, you can prevent existing neck lift scars from forming or promote faster healing. These solutions are as follows:

• Regular use of scar removal creams and gels

These products, which contain ingredients that renew skin tissue, support faster and smoother healing of scars. They also significantly contribute to the fading of scars over time with regular use.

• Silicone gel sheet (silicone tape) applications

Silicone strips create a protective barrier over scars, maintaining moisture balance and helping scars appear finer and softer. Thus, when used regularly, they are particularly effective on fresh scars.

• Professional massage and scar tissue mobilization

Post-operative massage helps the scar tissue stretch by reducing stiffness and tension in the skin, resulting in a smoother and more natural appearance.

• Laser treatments (fractional laser, CO₂ laser, etc.)

Laser treatments reduce color differences on scars and rejuvenate the skin, resulting in smoother texture. They are particularly effective on mature scars.

• Microneedling treatments

It increases collagen production and improves the texture of scars by creating controlled microchannels in the skin. With regular sessions, the visibility of scars is noticeably reduced.

• Chemical peeling for skin tone evening

The peeling process performed with mild acids renews the skin surface and reduces the tone difference in the scar area. It is particularly effective in eliminating color irregularities.

• Accelerating skin renewal with PRP therapy

When plasma obtained from the person's own blood is applied to the skin, it accelerates the healing process and improves the appearance of scars. The skin tissue becomes more vibrant and homogeneous.

• Preventing darkening of marks by using sunscreen

Since sunlight can cause fresh scars to darken, the use of SPF is essential. Therefore, regular protection ensures that scars heal faster and more evenly.

• Reducing or quitting smoking

Smoking slows blood circulation, negatively affecting skin healing and causing scars to remain more visible. When you quit, the healing process visibly speeds up.

• Regular moisturizing and proper skin care

A moisturized skin is more elastic and heals more healthily, resulting in smoother-looking scars. Proper care with suitable products supports every stage of the healing process.

How Long Does It Take for Neck Lift Surgery Scars to Heal?

The healing of neck lift surgery scars varies depending on the body's natural wound healing process and skin type. However, swelling, bruising, and fresh pink-red scars are seen during the first 1–2 weeks after surgery; during this period, the skin is still sensitive and fragile. In addition, an early maturation process occurs between 2 weeks and 3 months, the suture line closes, and the scars gradually open up, but may still be noticeable. In the intermediate maturation phase, which lasts 3–6 months, the scars thin out, blend in better with the skin tissue, and the tightness in the neck line becomes natural. The full maturation phase covers 6 months to 1 year and beyond; the scars approach the skin color and become invisible to most people when viewed from the outside. Thus, with regular scar care and sun protection, most scars become almost invisible, and the aesthetic result of the surgery reaches its highest level. For individuals considering neck lift surgery in Turkey, understanding these healing stages in advance helps set realistic expectations.

If you don't want to have possible scars after a neck lift, you can contact Dr. Berke Özücer and his team, who are experts in neck lift procedures, and receive detailed guidance within the comprehensive standards of facial plastic surgery Turkey.