Techniques for Creating Inconspicuous Face-Lift Scars
July 2003
in “
Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery
”
TLDR Proper incision techniques can make face-lift scars less noticeable.
The document discussed techniques for creating inconspicuous face-lift scars, emphasizing the importance of careful incision planning to avoid visible signs of surgery such as temporal hair loss and conspicuous scars. The authors highlighted the negative impact of poorly placed incisions, which could lead to "face-lift cripples" who must wear their hair down to hide scars. They proposed a method that preserved hair tufts and maintained well-concealed incisions, allowing patients to wear their hair in any style post-surgery. The technique involved specific incision placements and angles to minimize hair loss and scar visibility, with detailed attention to the direction of beveling and the natural contours of the ear and hairline. The article also addressed the unique considerations for male patients and methods to improve unsatisfactory incision lines from previous surgeries. The described technique was successfully used in over 500 face-lifts, integrating various strategies to improve cosmetic outcomes and minimize complications.