Incision Care After Deep Plane Facelift: Incision care after deep plane facelift involves keeping wounds clean, applying prescribed ointments, avoiding sun exposure, and following surgeon instructions. Proper care ensures optimal scar healing over 6-12 months.
— DeepPlane.com Medical Advisory Board
Deep Plane Facelift Incision Techniques: Quick Facts
- Incision Location
- Hairline to behind ear
- Scar Visibility
- Well-hidden when healed
- Suture Removal
- 5-10 days post-op
- Scar Maturation
- 6-12 months
- Incision Length
- Varies by technique
- Healing Time
- 2-3 weeks initial
Source: Clinical Studies & The Aesthetic Society

Typical deep plane facelift incision path along the hairline and around the ear
Deep Plane Facelift Incision Care
Quick Answer
Where are the incisions for a deep plane facelift?
Deep plane facelift incisions are hidden along natural creases — starting at the temple hairline, continuing in front of or inside the ear, around the earlobe, and behind the ear into the hairline. These heal as nearly invisible fine lines within 6–12 months. The deep plane technique allows smaller incisions than traditional facelifts because tissues are lifted as a unit.
Source: DeepPlane.com
What Is Involved in Deep Plane Facelift Incision Care?
Proper incision care after a deep plane facelift involves keeping the area clean and dry for the first 48 hours. Sutures are typically removed 5-10 days post-op. Scars mature over 6-12 months, becoming well-hidden within the hairline and behind the ear. Following your surgeon's specific instructions is critical for minimizing scarring.
- •Sutures removed in 5-10 days
- •Initial healing takes 2-3 weeks
- •Scars mature over 6-12 months and are well-hidden
Deep plane facelift incisions heal remarkably well because the technique reduces skin tension — the primary cause of visible scarring. Incisions are placed within the temporal hairline, along the ear tragus, around the earlobe, and behind the ear, becoming virtually invisible within 6-12 months. Proper wound care including sun protection and silicone-based scar treatment significantly improves the final appearance. Managing swelling in the first week also helps reduce tension on the incision lines, leading to finer scars compared to traditional SMAS techniques.
Complete guide to deep plane facelift incision care and healing.
How Long Do Facelift Incisions Take to Heal?
Sutures Removed
Stitches removed at surgeon visit. Steri-strips may stay another week.
Pink/Red Phase
Incision lines are pink and visible. Apply silicone gel and SPF daily.
Fading Phase
Scars progressively lighten. Concealer can cover any remaining visibility.
Virtually Invisible
Fully matured scars blend with natural skin folds. Hair covers temple incision.
What Is Deep Plane Facelift Incision Care?
Complete guide to deep plane facelift incision care and healing. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information to help you understand what to expect and make informed decisions about your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical References
- [1]Hamra ST. The deep-plane rhytidectomy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 1990;86(1):53-61(Journal Article)Accessed: 2026-03-21
- [2]Barrera A. Refinements in the deep-plane facelift technique. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2000;105(1):290-301(Journal Article)Accessed: 2026-03-21
- [3]
What Are Common Misconceptions About Facelift Incisions?
Myth: Incisions need constant attention
Fact: Simple daily care is sufficient. Over-cleaning or excessive manipulation can delay healing.
Myth: Scabs should be removed
Fact: Let scabs fall off naturally. Picking at them can cause scarring and infection.
Points Worth Noting
Get personalized guidance from a board-certified specialist
Outcomes vary — your surgeon will set realistic expectations
Recovery time depends on the extent of the procedure
Proper aftercare maximizes results and minimizes complications
Key Takeaways
Research thoroughly before making decisions
Consult with multiple board-certified surgeons
Review before and after photos carefully
Understand all costs and recovery requirements
Related Topics
Key Facts
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Yakup Duman
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Specialist
Board-certified Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery specialist with 20+ years of experience. Specializes in deep plane facelift at Merkez Prime Hospital, Istanbul. Medical Reviewer for DeepPlane.com.
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