Neck Lift

The neck may sag as a result of aging or weight loss, and is often affected before the face. Loose neck muscles can lead to an appearance of bands on the neck or drastic drooping of the skin. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that can smooth and tighten the skin on the neck and provide a more toned and youthful appearance.The results of this procedure offer a drastic improvement to the appearance of the neck and subtle changes to overall appearance. A neck lift may be performed alongside a facelift, or may be performed alone, after which your friends and family may not even realize that a surgical procedure was performed.

Candidates for Neck Lift

A candidate for a neck lift may be anyone who wants to get rid of sagging skin and loose muscles on their neck. Good candidates are also in good physical and emotional health and have realistic expectations about the outcome of their surgery. You can discuss the goals of your surgery with your surgeon so that you can achieve the results you desire.

Procedure

The neck lift procedure begins with making a small, inconspicuous incision directly below the chin, and in some cases behind the crease of the ears as well. The neck lift includes both a cervicoplasty to remove excess skin and a platysmaplasty to remove or alter muscles in the neck. Liposuction can also be used to remove excess fat during a neck lift. The incisions will then be sutured closed and the neck lift is completed.

The entire neck lift procedure takes two to three hours and may be performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the preference of the patient. Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis.

Recovery

You can expect to experience some swelling and bruising shortly after the neck lift procedure, which may last up to ten days. Patients are advised to keep their head still and avoid turning or twisting for the first few days. Applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated for the first 48 hours following neck lift surgery can help minimize swelling. Prescription medication is also available to help alleviate any discomfort.

The sutures will usually be removed after about one week. After a neck lift procedure, most people can return to work and other normal daily activities within two weeks, after bruising and swelling subside. More strenuous activities should be avoided for about four to six weeks.

Results

Sagging skin, wrinkles along the neck, or the appearance of a double chin can make you appear much older than you really are. By removing pockets of fat from the chin and neck area, eliminating drooping bands of muscle, and tightening loose skin and muscles, a neck lift can help you regain your slender, youthful appearance. A neck lift can also be used in combination with a facelift and/or facial liposuction to further redefine the jaw line and optimize your results.

Most patients who undergo neck lift surgery are extremely pleased with the results. The results of a neck lift can last up to ten years, and as you continue aging, you will always look younger than if you had never had a neck lift.

To learn more about the Neck Lift Procedures we provide, please call our office today to schedule a consultation.