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. Neck lift procedure may be performed with a facelift or may be performed alone.
Candidates
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 Dr. Kurtzman so that you can achieve the results you desire.
Procedure
Neck lift procedure begins with making a small incision directly below the chin and in some cases behind the crease of the ears. Neck lift includes both a cervicoplasty to remove excess skin and a platysmaplasty to remove or alter muscles in the neck. Liposuction may also be used to remove excess fat during the procedure. The incisions are sutured and the neck lift is completed. The entire 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. Sutures are usually removed after about one week. Most people can return to work and other normal daily activities within two weeks and 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 a double chin can make you look much older; and having neck lift surgery can help improve your appearance. To optimize your results, neck lift procedure can also be used in combination with a facelift and/or facial liposuction to further redefine the jaw line. Most patients who undergo this surgery are extremely pleased with the results. The results of a neck lift can last up to ten years.