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Swelling is common after a cosmetic facial surgery like a facelift, neck lift, blepharoplasty, and rhinoplasty. However, managing swelling can be challenging. But don't worry because you can reduce facial swelling and speed up your recovery with the right steps. In this post, we'll go over how to stop facial swelling and bruising after a facelift. If you've recently undergone a facelift, following these tips helps you feel more comfortable and heal faster. How to Reduce Facial Swelling on the Face Fast Facial swelling typically peaks within the first 48 hours after surgery and starts to subside after a week or so. However, you can take action to help minimise it and speed up the healing process. Here's how to reduce facial swelling on the face fast: 1. Use Ice or Cold Packs You've probably seen athletes use ice packs for injuries, and it's no different for facial surgery. Applying cold to the swollen area helps reduce inflammation and pain. For the first 48 to 72 hours, use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to avoid direct contact with your skin. Apply it for 10 to 15 minutes every hour to manage swelling and discomfort. 2. Keep Your Head Elevated The position of your head plays a big role in managing facial swelling. Even when you sleep, keep your head raised using pillows or an adjustable recliner. This allows fluids to drain away from the surgical site, preventing extra swelling. Try to sleep at a 45-degree angle if you can. 3. Avoid Hot Showers While hot showers might be relaxing, they can increase swelling. Avoid hot water for the first few days after surgery, as heat can dilate blood vessels and worsen facial swelling. Opt for lukewarm water when washing your face or showering. 4. Apply a Warm Compress After 48 Hours Once the initial swelling has started to go down (after 48 to 72 hours), you can switch from ice to a warm compress. This helps stimulate blood flow and promotes healing. Use a warm, moist towel or a heating pad on a low setting for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. This can help reduce swelling on the face quickly and encourage quicker recovery. 5. Eat a Healthy, Low-Salt Diet Your diet plays a role in reducing swelling. Excess salt can cause the body to retain water, which can worsen facial swelling. Stick to a balanced diet with plenty of fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Foods rich in Vitamin K, like spinach and kale, can help reduce swelling. Also, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to keep your body functioning well during recovery. 6. Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol Smoking and alcohol can slow down the healing process and worsen swelling. It's important to stop smoking at least eight weeks before surgery and refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol during recovery. These habits can impair your immune system, increase swelling, and raise the risk of complications. 7. Take Care of Your Stitches If you have stitches or bandages, follow your doctor's instructions for cleaning and changing them. Proper wound care helps prevent infections that could worsen swelling. If your doctor gave you any special ointments or medications, be sure to use them as directed. How to Reduce Bruising on the Face Fast While facial swelling is a natural part of the healing process, there are things you can do to reduce bruising and feel more comfortable. Check them out below: 1. Massage Once the swelling has gone down enough, a gentle massage can help move fluids away from the affected areas. However, only do this after your doctor gives you the go-ahead. Massaging too soon could make things worse. 2. Try Arnica or Vitamin K Cream Arnica is a natural remedy known to reduce bruising and swelling. You can apply arnica gel to the swollen areas a few times a day, starting after the first 48 hours. Similarly, Vitamin K cream can help speed up healing and reduce bruising. These treatments can be found in most drugstores. 3. Rest Well Rest is one of the most important factors in reducing bruising fast. Avoid strenuous activities and exercise, as they can increase blood flow to the face and make swelling worse. Take it easy during the first few weeks to give your body the time it needs to heal. 4. Wear Compression Garments Some surgeons may recommend wearing a compression garment to reduce bruising after facial surgery. These garments help promote circulation and prevent excess fluid buildup. If your doctor suggests one, follow their advice on when and how long to wear it. How Long Does Facial Swelling Last? Facial swelling is a temporary issue that should start to subside within the first week after surgery. Typically, the worst of the swelling will last for about two to three days, but it can take up to two weeks for it to go away completely. Bruising often accompanies swelling but will also fade within two weeks. If you've had stitches, they may need to be removed about a week after surgery. Your doctor will provide you with a follow-up plan to ensure everything is healing properly. When to See a Doctor If you experience excessive swelling, severe pain, or difficulty breathing, it's important to contact your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an infection or an allergic reaction to medications or anaesthesia. Regular check-ups with your surgeon also ensure that everything is healing as expected. Dr. De Silva uses strategic techniques to minimise swelling and bruising after a facelift. Conclusion Swelling after facial surgery is normal, but managing it effectively helps you feel better and heal faster. By following the steps above, you can reduce facial swelling and speed up your recovery process. From using ice packs and keeping your head elevated to avoiding smoking and alcohol, these simple tips can make a big difference. If you're looking for more personalised advice on how to stop facial swelling, don't hesitate to reach out to your surgeon for recommendations tailored to your specific procedure. Remember, proper aftercare and patience are key to a smooth recovery and a beautiful final result. Are you considering a cosmetic facial procedure in London? Dr. De Silva's clinic in Central London, Harley Street, W1, is one of the best. Book a consultation here to discuss your options and get a personalised treatment plan.

Facial surgery can offer amazing results, restoring youth and enhancing appearance. However, many potential patients are concerned about the visibility of scars after procedures like facelifts and blepharoplasty. It's natural to worry about whether the results will look natural or whether scarring will be noticeable. Fortunately, advanced surgical techniques today focus on minimising facial surgery scars, helping you achieve smoother, rejuvenated skin with minimal evidence of the procedure. In this post, we'll dive into common patient concerns, why scars can be visible after surgery, and the techniques available to help minimise scarring. If you're considering surgery or have concerns about scarring from previous procedures, this guide will provide valuable insights. Common Concerns About Scarring After Facial Surgery Many patients worry about scars being visible after facial surgery, especially in highly noticeable areas like the eyelids, jawline, and neck. A primary concern is that scars will be permanent and unsightly, ruining the aesthetic outcome of the surgery. Additionally, some fear unnatural results where the face might look operated on rather than naturally refreshed. Take, for example, a patient who had a previous blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) and face and neck lift performed by another surgeon. This patient came to Dr. De Silva, expressing dissatisfaction with visible scars, asymmetry, and puffiness under her eyes. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries, the patient still appeared tired and aged, with visible scars and uneven skin texture. This highlights how important it is for surgical procedures to be carefully planned and executed to avoid visible scarring. Why Can Scars Be Visible After Surgery? Visible scars after surgery can result from several factors: Poor Surgical Technique or Incision Placement: If incisions are not placed in natural creases or hairlines, scars are more likely to catch the light and become visible. Healing Process: Different skin types heal differently. Some individuals may be more prone to developing prominent scars due to their skin's natural response to healing. Individual Facial Anatomy: Every face is unique, and surgeries need to be tailored to the patient's facial structure. Failing to plan for individual features can result in unsatisfactory outcomes, including visible scars and asymmetry. As Dr. De Silva notes, even subtle mistakes, such as placing an eyelid surgery scar too high or removing too much skin, can lead to issues like puffiness, unevenness, or eyelid retraction, which are more noticeable. How to Minimise Scarring After Surgery The good news is that with the right techniques and an experienced surgeon, scars can be hidden or significantly minimised. Below are some ways that modern surgery can help reduce the visibility of scars: 1. Strategic Placement of Incisions A key to minimising scarring is placing incisions in natural facial creases or hairlines. For example, Dr. De Silva advises placing eyelid surgery scars lower within the natural crease of the eyelid, making them nearly invisible when the eyes are open. Similarly, in facelift surgeries, the goal is to position the incisions along the natural contours of the ears, making them much harder to spot. 2. Deep Plane Facelift Technique A deep plane facelift is an advanced method that not only lifts the skin but also addresses the underlying facial structures, such as ligaments and fat. This technique allows for more natural results and faster recovery times, as it avoids some of the common issues associated with traditional facelifts, such as visible scars or pulled skin. 3. Fat Transfer and Laser Resurfacing Fat transfer and laser resurfacing are excellent complementary techniques for improving the skin's texture and reducing visible scars. Fat transfer involves taking small amounts of fat from other parts of the body (such as the abdomen) and injecting it into areas of the face that have lost volume, such as the cheeks or under the eyes. This can smooth out wrinkles and lines, creating a more youthful appearance while helping the skin heal. Laser resurfacing helps to reduce the appearance of scars by encouraging the skin to renew itself. By stimulating collagen production, it can improve the texture and tone of the skin, leading to smoother and more even results. 4. Revision Surgery For patients who are unhappy with previous facial surgery results, revision surgery can be an excellent option. In revision cases, the surgeon carefully plans and executes new incisions, corrects any asymmetry, and addresses issues like puffiness or skin texture. As Dr. De Silva points out, revision surgeries focus on precision and artistry, blending surgical skill to ensure natural-looking results without visible scars. Natural-Looking Results: The Key to Confidence The ultimate goal of any facial surgery is to achieve natural-looking results. Dr. De Silva emphasises that a facelift or blepharoplasty should leave patients looking refreshed, not operated on. By blending artistry with surgical technique, skilled surgeons can help patients achieve rejuvenated, youthful-looking faces while minimising scarring. For example, in the case of the patient mentioned earlier, Dr. De Silva's revision surgery successfully repositioned the eyelid scars into the natural crease and reduced the puffiness under the eyes. The result was a much smoother, more symmetrical appearance that enhanced her natural beauty without leaving visible scars. Key Takeaways: How to Minimise Scarring After Surgery When it comes to facial surgery, scarring is a concern for many potential patients. However, with advanced techniques and careful planning, visible scars can be minimised or even concealed completely. Here are the key takeaways for anyone considering facial surgery: Not all surgeries result in visible scarring, especially when advanced techniques like deep plane facelifts and fat transfer are used. Scar visibility depends on the surgeon's skill, incision placement, and post-operative care. Choosing an experienced surgeon who specialises in facial surgery is crucial. Revision surgery can correct previous outcomes and significantly improve the appearance of scars. Precision and placement are key—whether it's repositioning an eyelid scar or ensuring facelift incisions are placed along the ear's natural curves. Conclusion To avoid visible scars and achieve the best possible results, it's essential to choose a surgeon with experience in facial surgery. As Dr. De Silva highlights, facial surgery is about millimetres, not centimetres, and requires an in-depth understanding of facial anatomy. A surgeon who specialises in facial procedures will be able to carefully plan and execute your surgery to ensure a smooth, natural result with minimal scarring. If you're considering facelift or blepharoplasty surgery, or if you're unhappy with the results of a previous surgery, don't hesitate to reach out to a skilled, experienced surgeon to discuss your options. Minimising scarring and achieving natural results is possible when done right. Are you considering a cosmetic facial procedure in London? Dr. De Silva's clinic in Central London, Harley Street, W1, is one of the best. Book a consultation here to discuss your options and get a personalised treatment plan.

If you’re looking into facial rejuvenation, chances are you’ve seen both terms thrown around: mini facelift and full facelift. A lot of people assume that one is just a smaller version of the other, like choosing a small coffee instead of a large one. But when it comes to mini vs. full facelift, that logic doesn’t hold up. The differences go deeper—literally. What separates the two isn’t just how much is done, but how it's done, what areas are affected, and how long the results actually last. Let’s get into it. Why the Confusion Happens It’s easy to think of a mini facelift as a lighter, faster facelift. Less downtime, fewer scars, and a more “natural” look, right? That’s how it’s marketed sometimes, but that’s not the full story. The truth is, the term “mini” refers more to the scope than the technique. And when people focus on the name instead of the outcome, they end up with results that don’t meet their expectations. The comparison between a full facelift vs. a mini facelift needs to be based on the results, not just the recovery or the incision size. What a Mini Facelift Can Do Well A mini facelift can absolutely give great results for the right patient. It’s ideal for people showing early signs of facial aging, especially in the lower face. If you’ve got some soft jowls, mild marionette lines, or light shadowing around the mouth and cheeks, a mini lift can help reposition tissue and restore a more youthful shape. And yes, it typically involves shorter incisions that are well-hidden around the ear and hairline. The recovery is usually quicker, and there’s less disruption to the deeper structures, though that varies based on the surgeon’s technique. Some advanced mini facelifts go beyond the skin to lift deeper tissues, especially when a vertical or SMAS technique is used. This improves facial definition without looking pulled. But Here’s Where It Falls Short Mini facelifts are limited. They usually don’t improve the neck. They won’t fix sagging that comes from deeper tissue drooping or fat loss. And they won’t give the kind of transformation some people are hoping for. From a technical standpoint, a mini lift doesn’t allow for the same depth of dissection or repositioning as a full facelift. That means: Less structural lifting Minimal or no change in the neck and jawline Shorter-lasting results In some cases, people who’ve had a mini facelift return within a year or two because they want more definition or longer-lasting improvements. The mini lift gave a nice boost, but it didn’t go far enough. When a Full Facelift Makes More Sense The full facelift isn’t about being “extra.” It’s about addressing everything that contributes to ageing, especially the lower face and neck. This procedure involves lifting the SMAS layer (a deep layer of connective tissue), repositioning fat, and tightening muscles, not just pulling the skin. That’s what gives a natural, long-lasting result. It’s not about looking different. It’s about looking like you, just fresher. Here’s what a full facelift can handle that a mini can’t: Neck bands or sagging skin Deep nasolabial folds and marionette lines Loss of volume and facial shape Advanced jowling Poor jawline definition It’s also easier to combine volume restoration techniques like fat grafting with a full facelift. That adds back the youthful fullness in the cheeks and under the eyes—something tightening alone can’t fix. “Natural” Doesn’t Always Mean “Mini” A common misconception is that mini facelifts look more natural because they’re less invasive. But that’s not always true. In fact, using a mini facelift on someone who needs more correction can backfire. They still look tired, or even worse, slightly off, because the lift didn’t match the anatomy. A full facelift done with finesse can look incredibly natural. The key is how the tissues are lifted, not how much skin is removed. When deeper tissues are repositioned upward toward the cheekbones and jawline, the face regains its youthful structure without looking pulled. Sometimes, less is more. But sometimes, less is just less. Choosing the Right Strategy When comparing a mini vs. full facelift, the real question is: What are you trying to fix? A mini facelift works well for someone with mild ageing who wants a small, targeted improvement. It’s not meant to overhaul the face. A full facelift is for people who want real structural improvement in the lower face and neck, especially when skin laxity and volume loss are more advanced. Here’s a quick side-by-side: Mini Facelift Full Facelift Best for Early signs of ageing Moderate to advanced ageing Areas addressed Lower face only Lower face, midface, and neck Surgical depth Skin and limited SMAS Deep-plane or full SMAS lifting Neck rejuvenation Minimal Included Longevity 2–5 years 8–12 years Visual impact Subtle Dramatic yet natural Volume restoration Rarely included Often paired with fat grafting What Long-Term Satisfaction Looks Like Most patients want their results to last and look natural. That depends more on choosing the right procedure than the smallest one. If you go too conservative with a mini lift when more correction is needed, you may be back in the operating room sooner than you think. And that second surgery often ends up being the full facelift you could’ve had from the beginning. That doesn’t mean mini facelifts don’t have value—they do. But only when used for the right purpose. Conclusion Mini and full facelifts are two totally different tools. They’re not scaled versions of each other. A mini vs. full facelift comparison only makes sense when you’re thinking in terms of surgical goal, not convenience or buzzwords. It’s not about doing the least. It’s about doing what works for your face, your ageing pattern, and your long-term goals. Are you considering a cosmetic facial procedure in London? Dr. Julian De Silva’s clinic in Central London, Harley Street, W1, is one of the best. Book a facelift consultation here to discuss your options and get a personalised treatment plan.

As we age, the skin around our eyes starts to change. You might notice puffiness, sagging skin, or dark circles that make you look tired even when you’re not. If that sounds familiar, you’re probably wondering what your options are. Should you go for something non-invasive like fillers or laser treatments? Or is surgery the better long-term solution? Let’s break down the key differences between non-surgical vs surgical blepharoplasty, based on expert advice from Dr Julian De Silva, a facial cosmetic surgeon who specialises in eye surgery options. Why Do Our Eyes Age Like This? The skin around the eyes is thinner than the rest of the face, which means it shows signs of ageing earlier. You might see loose skin on the upper eyelids, puffiness caused by fat pushing forward, or shadows under your eyes (often called tear troughs). Creams may promise results, but they rarely make a big difference. That’s because most of the changes are happening under the surface, where creams can’t reach. Non-Surgical Eye Treatments: When They Work Best Non-surgical treatments can work well for people with mild signs of ageing—usually in their 30s or early 40s. Here are a few options: Tear Trough Fillers Fillers made with hyaluronic acid can help fill in shallow depressions under the eyes. This softens shadows and gives a more refreshed look. These are ideal if you’re younger and only have mild hollowing. However, the tear trough area is delicate. It’s riskier than other parts of the face because of the blood supply around the eyes. If filler accidentally enters a blood vessel, it can cause serious complications, even blindness. This is why it’s critical to go to a qualified medical professional who uses dissolvable fillers and knows how to inject safely. Botox Botox works well for crow’s feet—those little wrinkles on the outer corners of the eyes that show up when you smile. It temporarily relaxes the muscles, smoothing out the skin. Botox is effective across age groups and doesn’t require downtime. Laser Resurfacing and Plexr If you’ve got fine lines or some loose skin, treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing or Plexr can help. They stimulate collagen and improve skin texture. But the effects are mild and come with a recovery time. The skin will be red or pink for a few days. When Non-Surgical Treatments Aren’t Enough Non-surgical options have limits. They don’t remove fat or tighten large amounts of loose skin. If you’ve got heavy eyelids, puffiness, or deeper hollows under the eyes, it might be time to consider surgery. Surgical Eye Treatments: What Is Blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty is the surgical term for eyelid surgery. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both (called quad blepharoplasty). This option allows for more dramatic and longer-lasting results. Upper Blepharoplasty Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids. It’s great if you have droopy lids or puffiness. The result is a fresher, more awake look. Lower Blepharoplasty Lower eyelid surgery reduces puffiness and smooths the area under the eyes. One common approach is transconjunctival blepharoplasty, where the fat is removed through the inside of the eyelid. This technique helps avoid changing the natural shape of the eye. If there’s also a hollow or depression under the eye, fat transfer may be used. A small amount of fat is taken from another part of your body (usually the belly), processed, and placed under the eyes to smooth the area. What About Wrinkles and Texture? While blepharoplasty handles structure, it doesn’t target surface wrinkles caused by sun damage. That’s where laser treatments or regenerative medicine like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) come in. These can be done as part of your surgical plan to improve skin quality. Recovery Time: Non-Surgical vs Surgical Eye Surgery Non-surgical treatments like fillers or Botox take about 30 minutes. There's little to no downtime, and the results can last up to a year. However, if the wrong filler is used or placed poorly, it can cause puffiness that needs to be corrected, often with surgery. Choosing eye surgery like blepharoplasty is a bigger commitment. Surgery takes about 1–2.5 hours, and recovery involves swelling and bruising for up to two weeks. Full healing can take six weeks or more, but the results often last 8 to 10 years or even longer. Weighing the Risks Every treatment has risks. For non-surgical eye treatments, the most serious risk is vision loss from filler being accidentally injected into a blood vessel. This is rare but very serious and irreversible if not treated immediately. Surgical blepharoplasty also comes with risks, like infection, scarring, or changes in eyelid shape. But when done by an experienced surgeon, these risks are low. Which Option Is Right for You? Here’s a quick way to look at non-surgical vs surgical eye surgery: Non-surgical: Great for younger patients with mild ageing, shallow tear troughs, or light wrinkles. You’ll see faster results with minimal downtime. Surgical: Better for moderate to severe puffiness, significant loose skin, or deep hollows. The results are more noticeable and last much longer. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best approach depends on your specific anatomy, age, and what kind of results you’re looking for. Always consult with a qualified medical professional—ideally someone who offers both options—so you can make a decision based on what’s safest and most effective for you. Conclusion Do you want help choosing eye surgery or deciding between non-surgical and surgical blepharoplasty in London? Dr. Julian De Silva’s clinic in Central London, Harley Street, W1, is one of the best. Book a blepharoplasty consultation here to discuss your options and get a personalised treatment plan.

Planning a cosmetic procedure can feel overwhelming. For this reason, we've updated our list to answer the most common cosmetic questions, plastic surgeon questions, and surgery questions. Whether you're exploring a facelift, neck lift, blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty, or another cosmetic treatment, our friendly guide is here to help. We believe that clear, honest answers make all the difference when preparing for your consultation and cosmetic procedure. To help you make an informed decision, here's our updated guide of consultation questions patients should ask us but don't: Who will I see at my consultation? You'll see Dr. Julian De Silva at your consultation. Unlike other clinics that send coordinators or nurses, you can speak directly to Dr. De Silva. By doing this, you'll get genuine and personalised answers to your consultation questions. This direct interaction also builds trust and helps you feel more at ease about your procedure. Remember, you deserve to have a clear conversation with someone who'll do the procedure. What are the surgeon's qualifications? You should know who will be performing your procedure. Ask about the surgeon's training, board certifications, and experience with similar procedures. Dr. De Silva is proud of his background, awards, and years of hands-on experience in cosmetic treatments. When you ask these plastic surgeon questions, you learn that you're in the hands of a specialist who has successfully helped many patients achieve natural-looking results. Is the surgeon and The Centre fully insured in case anything goes wrong? This is important because you have to make sure your surgeon is fully insured and the clinic follows strict safety standards. Some surgeons rent rooms at different locations, making it hard to track them down if something goes wrong. The Centre is fully transparent and insured, so patients know they are protected. What is your experience in performing my procedure? Experience matters. You want a surgeon who has at least 10,000 hours of experience. The more experience they have, the better they can handle different patient needs and minimise risks. Dr. De Silva was qualified in 1999 and has been working in facial aesthetics and plastic surgery for more than 10 years. Can I see before and after photos? A surgeon's portfolio gives you a clear idea of their work. We have an extensive gallery of before and after images, as well as video testimonials from real patients. Seeing the results helps set realistic expectations and assures the surgeon's skills. Can you achieve the results I'm looking for? An excellent surgeon will be honest about what's possible. While we always aim for the best outcome, some factors—like skin type, age, and healing ability—affect the final result. If we don't think surgery will give you the outcome you want, we'll tell you upfront. In cases where scars have not settled, Dr. De Silva does everything in his power to revise the scars. Where will I have my procedure? Some clinics offer consultations in fancy offices but perform surgeries elsewhere, sometimes in lower-quality facilities. It's important to know where your procedure will happen. Your procedure will take place at a world-class facility at 23 Harley Street W1G 9QN, Central London. What will my recovery be like? Recovery time depends on the procedure, but you should plan for at least two to three weeks of downtime. Swelling and bruising are common. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and support to help you heal properly. How do you handle surgical complications? While complications are rare, they can happen. We discuss all risks upfront and provide follow-up care to address any concerns. If a revision procedure is needed, we support our patients for the best possible results. Drs De Silva also provides personalised care and will always be there for you during your recovery. What procedures do you recommend for my concerns? Your procedure should be tailored to you. Some patients benefit from surgery, while others may achieve great results with non-surgical options. We assess your goals and medical history before making recommendations. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. What type of anaesthesia will be used? Different procedures require different types of anaesthesia. Some surgeries use local anaesthesia with sedation, while others need general anaesthesia. We explain which option is best for you and why. Safety is our top concern, and we use only proven, effective anaesthesia methods. Will I need follow-up appointments? Yes, follow-ups are needed to monitor healing and address any concerns you may have. We schedule regular check-ins after surgery to make sure everything is progressing as expected. What are the total costs, and what's included? Surgery pricing varies, so it's important to get a full breakdown of costs. Ask if aftercare, anaesthesia, and follow-ups are included in the price. We provide transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make before surgery? You may need to adjust certain habits before surgery for the best results. These can include quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and stopping certain medications. We provide pre-surgery guidelines to help optimise healing and reduce risks. How do I know if I'm a good candidate for surgery? Health conditions, lifestyle, and expectations play a role. We conduct thorough consultations to determine if cosmetic surgery is the right choice for you. If Dr. De Silva believes an alternative treatment is better, he'll discuss those options with you. Conclusion Whether you're asking cosmetic questions, plastic surgeon questions, or surgery questions, being informed makes the process smoother. Our aim is to provide clear, complete, and honest answers so you feel confident about your choices. Remember to get the most out of your consultation by coming prepared with questions. Since our consultations are detailed and personalised, they are paid sessions with limited availability. If you have questions before booking, our front desk team is happy to help. Otherwise, you can book a consultation here to discuss your options and get a personalised treatment plan.

Getting a facelift is a huge decision. While the results can be fantastic, one major concern is scarring. No one wants visible scars after a facelift. The goal is to keep them as hidden as possible. Proper wound care plays a huge role in achieving this, helping scars heal smoothly and fade over time. The Goal: Nearly Invisible Scars The goal is to make scars nearly invisible. Incisions should be placed in the natural creases around the front ear. They should also not change the hairline or ear shape. For instance, scars behind the ear should be discreet. However, hiding scars is not easy and must be done by a surgeon who has lots of experience. Some patients go to Dr. Julian De Silva for scar revisions because of visible scars in these areas. More often, the incisions don't follow the ear's natural lines or are too straight. The best facelift scars are ones you can barely see. A well-placed facelift incision should blend with the ear's natural creases and not affect the hairline or ear shape. However, not all surgeries go perfectly, and some patients end up with visible or poorly placed scars. Understanding the healing process and proper scar care helps prevent this. Types of Facelift Closures Different surgeons use different methods to close facelift incisions, each with its pros and cons. Here are the most common types of facelift closures: 1. Non-Dissolvable Stitches Non-dissolvable stitches are a common choice for facelifts. They cause minimal irritation and provide the best scarring results. These stitches are removed manually within a week or so after surgery. While they require some extra attention for removal, they tend to heal cleanly, leaving minimal scarring when done right. For many patients, the results are worth the extra step, as the scar is well-hidden in the natural creases around the ear or hairline. 2. Dissolvable Stitches Dissolvable stitches are fine, clear, or white threads that don't need to be removed. They dissolve on their own within one to six weeks. They're a more convenient option for many patients since there's no need for a follow-up appointment to remove them. However, they can sometimes irritate the skin as they dissolve. This can lead to increased scarring. This is especially true in other areas of the face and other treatments like neck lifts and blepharoplasty. While they heal well overall, some might get track marks or a slightly wider scar. 3. Clips Clips are metal tags that look like staples. They're used to secure the skin, especially behind the ears or along the hairline. Surgeons might also use them during brow lifts, where they hold the skin in place. While clips are effective at keeping the skin together, they can be uncomfortable to remove. In some cases, patients may end up with track marks where the clips were placed, leading to slightly more noticeable scars. Due to the discomfort during removal and the potential for track marks, Dr. Julian De Silva doesn't use clips. He'd rather use stitches because they heal and look better. Though the process may take longer, stitches are generally considered a more reliable option for long-term results. 4. Glue There are two main types of medical glue used in surgeries. One is similar to super glue, made from acrylic and cyanoacrylate. It's used for minor cuts in emergency settings. It works only on the surface of the skin and doesn't support the deeper tissues, making it unsuitable for more complex surgeries like facelifts. The other type is called tissue glue. It has been used in cosmetic procedures like eyelid surgery and facelifts. There's another type called tissue glue. More than 10 years ago, Dr. Julian De Silva conducted a randomized controlled study using this glue in eyelid surgery without stitches. It worked well in closing the skin. Tissue glue helps reduce bleeding and promotes clotting, which can help with the healing process. However, tissue glue is made from human blood products, which means there's a small risk of infection despite being screened. That's why Dr. De Silva prefers not to use tissue glue anymore. However, some doctors still use it when performing facelifts. Hiding Facelift Scars You might be concerned about scars if you're considering a facelift. Fortunately, there are a few techniques that keep them hidden and discreet. Let's take a look at two methods in detail below: Ponytail or Endoscopic Facelift A ponytail or endoscopic facelift helps hide scars by placing them within your hairline so they're nearly invisible. These methods work well for people with mild skin laxity, which means they don't have much loose skin. They're also perfect for younger patients or those with early signs of ageing. However, these techniques may not be the best choice if there's a lot of loose skin. Traditional facelift surgery is usually more effective for patients with significant skin sagging. Haemostatic Net A haemostatic net is a technique where multiple stitches are placed around the face after surgery. This technique reduces the risk of haematoma (blood collecting beneath the skin), which can be as high as 10% in surgeries under general anesthesia. Haematoma can also cause swelling, bruising, and large lumps under the skin. However, the process involves a lot of stitches, which can look striking and cause visible marks after removal. The stitch marks may also be more noticeable in patients with sensitive skin or a history of poor scarring. Because of this, some surgeons avoid using the haemostatic net, though it can be useful for reducing bleeding and preventing complications. Best Treatments for Facelift Scars Once your facelift incisions have healed, there are several ways to improve the appearance of scars. 1. Scar Massage After Facelift Gently massaging your scars can help improve how they look. Scar tissue can be firm and raised at first, but massaging it helps soften the tissue and boosts blood flow. Over time, this can make the scar flatter and less noticeable. Your surgeon will give you the go-ahead when it's safe to start massaging. It's a simple step that can make a difference. 2. Silicone Sheets and Gels Silicone-based products, like sheets or gels, are among the best treatments for facelift scars. They help keep the scar hydrated, which is important for the healing process. These products also protect the scar from external irritants, which can make it worse. Many patients notice their scars look less noticeable with regular use of silicone sheets or gels, especially with the texture and color. 3. Laser Treatments Laser treatments help a lot if your scar has become red or raised. They target the scar tissue to reduce redness and even out the texture. It's a great option for scars that have become a little more noticeable over time. The treatment works by stimulating the skin beneath the scar, so it blends more seamlessly with the rest of the skin. 4. Microneedling Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin to promote collagen production. This helps the scar tissue to blend in better with the surrounding skin. It usually takes several sessions to see noticeable improvement, but it can help scars heal. 5. Steroid Injections Steroid injections are another common treatment for thick or raised scars. They help flatten the tissue, reduce redness, and make the scar less visible. This treatment works well for more pronounced scars. Caring for Facelift Scars Caring for facelift scars makes sure they heal well and look as good as possible. Here are some tips to help you take care of them: 1. Follow Your Surgeon's Instructions Your surgeon knows what's best for your unique healing process. Follow their advice on how to clean, dress, and protect your facelift incisions. Everyone heals differently, so follow their instructions. 2. Keep the Area Clean Gently wash the area with mild soap and water to keep it clean. Doing this will help prevent any infections from forming, which could make your scar worse. Just be sure not to scrub too hard. 3. Avoid Sun Exposure Sun exposure can darken scars, making them more noticeable. Always apply sunscreen to your face or wear a hat when you're outside. The less sun, the better it is for your scars. 4. Don't Pick at Scabs Don't pick at any scabs, as tempting as it may be. Let your skin heal naturally. Picking at scabs can infect your skin and worsen scarring. 5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well Your body needs good nutrition to heal properly. Drink plenty of water and eat food rich in vitamins A and C, which helps with skin repair. Remember, healthy food equals healthy skin. 6. Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol Smoking and drinking alcohol can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of developing poor scars. Avoid both while your scars are healing. 7. Be Patient Healing takes time. Your scars may look red or raised at first, but they'll fade over a few months. Be patient and give your skin time to heal fully. Conclusion Scars after a facelift are inevitable, but they don't have to be obvious. With the right surgical techniques, proper wound care, and post-op treatments, your scars can heal and stay hidden. Following your surgeon's recommendations and being patient with the healing process give you the best chance of having nearly invisible scars. Are you thinking about having a facelift in London? Dr. De Silva's clinic in Central London, Harley Street, W1, is one of the best. Book a facelift consultation here to discuss your options and get a personalised treatment plan.