One of the most common questions I hear from patients considering a facelift is, “Will people be able to see my scars?” It’s a natural concern, and one I take very seriously. That’s why I developed the Traceless Deep Plane Facelift, a technique designed to make scars virtually imperceptible. By carefully placing incisions in hidden, natural creases and within the hairline, I’m able to deliver powerful rejuvenation without the telltale signs of surgery.
Why I Call It ‘Traceless’
The art of a deep plane facelift isn’t only about tightening or lifting—it’s about doing so in a way no one can detect. I design every incision to be as discreet as possible: in the hairline by the temple, the fold in front of the ear, and behind the ear where it meets the scalp. Even up close, patients and their loved ones are often amazed at how unnoticeable their scars become.
Incision placement, however, is only the beginning. I also focus on what happens beneath the skin. Instead of relying on superficial tightening, I lift and reposition the deeper layers of facial tissue to restore natural contours. This ensures my patients look refreshed and youthful, never “pulled” or overdone.
Traceless Deep Plane Facelift Incision Placement
I place Traceless Deep Plane Facelift incisions where the resulting scars are virtually imperceptible. In both techniques, the incisions originate in the hairline by the temples and extend down around the ears. This placement provides access to the deeper layer of tissues that I reposition and tighten to restore a youthful, natural-looking appearance.
Traceless Deep Plane Facelift Before and After Photos
Dr. Stoker’s technique uses expertly placed incisions hidden within natural creases and hairlines.
My Traceless Deep Plane Facelift & Neck Lift
I often recommend my Traceless Deep Plane Facelift and Neck Lift for patients who want the most dramatic transformation with the most lasting results. If you’re considering this procedure, you may wonder how this advanced approach affects scarring. The good news is that the principles of my Traceless technique remain the same: Every incision is carefully concealed in the hairline and natural folds around the ear so scars stay virtually undetectable.
Here’s what you should know about incision placement and scar minimization for this procedure:
- Hidden Incisions
Traceless Deep Plane Facelift incisions are discreetly tucked into the hairline and ear creases. Even with the added neck lift, the scar pattern remains camouflaged, so patients don’t have to worry about visible marks. - Deep Plane Lifting
Because I lift beneath ligaments and deeper structures, there’s less tension on the skin surface. Reduced tension means the incision lines heal more smoothly and blend more easily into surrounding tissue. - Neck Rejuvenation
Addressing the neck doesn’t require additional visible scars. The same carefully placed incisions around the ear give me access to refine the jawline and smooth the neck while keeping scars concealed. - Authentic Results
By repositioning tissues instead of pulling them tight, I minimize stress on the incision sites. This not only produces a natural look but also helps scars mature into thin, nearly invisible lines.
How the Traceless Deep Plane Facelift Conceals Scars: Real Patient Results
The key to the Traceless Deep Plane Facelift is its virtually invisible incisions, which allow me to reshape and lift the face without leaving noticeable scars. This 61-year-old woman is shown at a 4-month follow-up appointment. The strategic placement of the incisions ensured a discreet transformation, giving her newfound confidence.
This 59-year-old woman, shown only 10 weeks after her Traceless Facelift, was concerned about visible scarring and wanted assurance that any incisions would be concealed. The results demonstrate the technique’s ability to hide scars along natural creases and hairlines.
Traditional vs. Mini vs. Deep Plane Traceless Facelift
For those curious about how the Traceless approach compares to other facelift techniques, here’s how incision placement and scar visibility differ.
| Facelift Type | Incisions | Target Layer | Scar Visibility |
| Traditional Facelift | Creases + neck folds | Skin | Moderate to low |
| Mini Facelift | Shorter, limited incisions | Superficial skin layer only | Virtually imperceptible |
| Traceless Facelift | Hairline + around the ear | Superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) | Virtually imperceptible |
| Traceless Deep Plane Facelift | Hairline + around the ear | Sub-SMAS deep plane to release retaining ligaments of face & neck | Virtually imperceptible |
How Incisions Heal
The facelift recovery process plays a significant role in how your scars mature. I have developed a thoughtful, patient‑centered timeline for healing to prepare you for what to expect:
- Weeks 1–2: Inflammatory Phase
Expect redness and mild swelling. With proper care—such as keeping incisions clean—this phase sets the stage for effective healing. - Weeks 3–6: Proliferative Phase
As collagen starts to build, early scar tissue forms. Because my closures minimize tension, scars become flatter and less pink throughout this period. - 6 Months to 2 Years: Remodeling Phase
Over time, scars soften, stretch, and blend. Most patients find them barely visible, even upon close inspection.
It’s critical to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and wear wide-brimmed hats to protect your scars from the sun.
My Philosophy
I often tell patients that the best facelift is one that doesn’t look like a facelift at all. My goal is for people to notice that you look refreshed, confident, and vibrant—not that you’ve had surgery. Every technique I use is designed with that outcome in mind.
If you’re ready to explore how my Traceless Deep Plane Face and Neck Lift can help you achieve your goals, request a consultation using the online form or call my office at (310) 300-1779. I look forward to discussing your unique needs and designing a plan that leaves you looking like yourself, only better.
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