Following a Neck Lift, you can expect minor scars behind the ears and under the chin. The extent and visibility of Neck Lift scars depend on the locations of the incision, your skin's unique healing properties, and how closely you follow your surgeon’s postoperative care instructions.  

Neck Lift scars may appear red and more noticeable initially but fade over time, becoming less prominent. The scarring varies between patients due to differences in skin elasticity, healing capabilities, and the body's response to injury.

Those with darker skin tones are more prone to developing hypertrophic scars or keloids. These types of scars are more pronounced and you may require additional treatment to improve their appearance. 

Following the postoperative care instructions closely is crucial to avoid noticeable scarring, especially if you have a darker skin tone. Your surgeon may advise using silicone gel sheets or scar creams to reduce the thickness and discolouration of any scarring. Exposure to UV rays from the sun can also darken the scars. It’s best to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during the healing process after a Neck Lift procedure. 

What Are the Neck Lift Scar Healing Stages?

A Neck Lift scar passes through four distinct healing stages - the initial phase, the early maturation phase, the mid-maturation phase and the complete maturation phase. Each of these stages is critical to the overall appearance and health of the scar. 

Initial healing phase (0-2 weeks)

Immediately following your Neck Lift you will experience redness, swelling and discomfort at the incision sites. It’s important to keep the area clean and follow the postoperative instructions carefully to prevent complications and infections. 

Early maturation phase (2 weeks to 3 months)

During this stage, your scars appear less red but still a little raised. As time goes on, the redness will start to reduce, and the scars will start flattening and fading. Avoid tension in the scar areas during this time by following activity restrictions suggested by your surgeon. It’s also essential to protect the scars from the sun during this time as they are most susceptible to hyperpigmentation. 

Mid-maturation phase (3-6 months)

During this phase, the Neck Lift scars behind the ears become less red, and their texture continues to improve, becoming flatter. If your surgeon recommends them, you can use silicone sheets or gel during this time to promote healing and keep the area hydrated. 

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

Once the scars enter the complete maturation phase, they will have faded significantly and become much less noticeable. They will become closer to the colour and texture of the surrounding skin, although it might take a year or more to completely blend in. At the end of this period, you can assess the final appearance of the scar and look out for minor improvements that can still happen as time goes on. 

At the Cadogan Clinic, our experienced surgeons ensure that Neck Lift surgery scars are concealed behind your ears and within your hairline, making them less noticeable. Depending on the concerns your Neck Lift is treating such as lines and wrinkles or saggy jowls you may require incisions in different places. If you require an incision under the chin, it’s placed discreetly to minimise visibility. 

You will also have 24/7 access to our nursing team throughout your recovery period to ensure optimum healing. 

How to Reduce Neck Lift Scars

Reducing Neck Lift scarring involves surgical precision, proper postoperative care and sometimes, additional treatments. 

Pre-surgical planning 

Selecting a skilled and experienced surgeon for your Neck Lift is crucial as it can significantly impact the size, placement and visibility of your scars. Experienced surgeons use techniques that ensure the scars are hidden and less noticeable. 

You should also discuss your skin type or predisposition to scarring with your surgeon. It will allow your surgeon to adjust the procedure and aftercare programme for your age and skin type to minimise scarring. 

Our Neck Lift before-and-after gallery contains many examples of Neck Lift scar pictures to show you how the scarring may appear following your procedure.

Immediate postoperative care

Keeping the incision clean and preventing infections is crucial to minimising scarring after Neck Lift surgery. You will need to clean the incisions and change the dressings as your surgeon recommends. 

You should also avoid activities that put a strain on the incision, as this may lead to the wound opening and causing issues with infection or keloids. As scars are more prone to discolouration during this time, you should apply a broad-spectrum high-SPF sunscreen when outside in the sun. 

Mid-term scar management

Using silicone sheets or gel during the first few months of recovery can effectively reduce the appearance of the Neck Lift scars in more visible areas such as under the chin. Silicone hydrates the scar, reduces its appearance, and improves healing.

If recommended by your surgeon, wear an appropriate compression garment. These garments apply gentle but even pressure to the Neck Lift scar, helping it flatten and become less visible. If your surgeon approves, you can start gently massaging the scar, which will help break down the scar tissue, making it appear smoother and less visible. 

Long-term strategies 

If you’re not satisfied with the appearance of the neck scar after it has completely healed, you can opt for additional treatments, like laser therapy or steroid injections. These procedures can improve the colour and texture of the scar, making it less noticeable. 

Your diet is also essential to reduce scarring after a Neck Lift. A diet rich in micronutrients, like vitamins and minerals, supports healing and can reduce the appearance of your scar. 

FAQs