What is Neck Lift?
A cosmetic procedure, such as a neck lift, can treat excess skin and fat in the lower neck region. Learn more about neck lifts from Williams Surgical Arts cosmetic surgeon Dr. Micheal Williams.
The earliest signs of aging often appear in the neck region. A neck lift is a way to subtly diminish these signs of aging through the removal of excess skin and fat. If you’re bothered by fine lines, deep wrinkles or sagging skin, a neck lift may be right for you.
The Procedure
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM A NECK LIFT?
The best candidates will be in good health and wish to reverse signs of aging, sun exposure and smoking present in the lower face and neck regions. A neck lift can treat:
- Excess fat deposits in the neck
- Sagging or excess neck skin
- Jowls or a double chin
Neck lift surgery is a safe and effective way to tighten underlying neck muscles to improve muscle tone. After a neck lift, your skin will appear tighter and smoother – creating a more attractive, youthful-looking contour.
Despite its many advantages, a neck lift may not be for everyone. The best way to find out if you’re an ideal candidate is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR NECK LIFT
A neck lift takes between 2-3 hours to perform under general anesthetic or intravenous sedation. Your surgeon will begin by making two incisions behind or under the ears. The skin is lifted and trimmed away. An additional incision may be made underneath your chin to access the platysma (neck muscle). Your surgeon will manipulate or remove some of the muscle to improve contour.
Liposuction may be performed to remove the excess fat from the neck area. The skin is then redraped tightly across the neck to give the lower face a more youthful appearance. The incisions are closed using fine stitches for minimal scarring.
AFTER YOUR SURGERY
Recovery time varies. Bandages will be applied to the treatment area following surgery, and a compression garment may be worn for the first few days to decrease swelling and improve circulation. There will be some discomfort immediately following the procedure, but this can be managed using prescription medication.
Bruising will be visible for the first few days. Swelling should dissipate within a few weeks, at which time the results of your surgery should become apparent. Normal activity can be resumed in 1-3 weeks. Incision lines should continue to fade for 12-18 months.
UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS OF A NECK LIFT
Possible complications of neck surgery are similar to those of other surgeries, including infection, bleeding, changes in sensitivity, and asymmetry. To help minimize the risk of complications, your medical history will be discussed during the consultation, as well as any steps you can take to help ensure the best outcome.
