Restore a sculpted, refined neck and jawline. A neck lift is a plastic surgery procedure to correct signs of aging in the neck and jawline. Some people who still have a youthful facial appearance will develop creases, folds, or excess fat on the neck, a double chin, a “turkey wattle,” or jowls. A custom neck lift creates a subtle but dramatic enhancement for your look.
What is Involved in a Neck Lift?
Most neck lifts are performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The goal of the procedure is to tighten the muscles and smooth the skin of the neck. The surgeon makes small incisions behind and around the ear and one very small incision under the chin. Through these incisions, the surgeon tightens muscles in the neck and removes excess fat and skin, then closes the incisions. Liposuction may also be used for excess fat removal. South Florida Facial Plastic Surgery offers this procedure at our offices in Doral, Coral Gables, Aventura, Lighthouse Point, Margate, and North Miami.
Rest and Recover After a Neck Lift Procedure
After neck lift surgery, you may need to wear a bandage or a compression garment to help minimize swelling and bruising. Keep your head elevated above your heart. You will also need to keep your head straight and avoid twisting or bending the neck for a few days after surgery. You may need to take a few weeks off work to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous exercise for the length of time prescribed by your doctor.
Neck Lift FAQ
What cosmetic concerns can be treated with a neck lift?
A neck lift is performed to rejuvenate the appearance of the neck and jawline. Cosmetic problems neck lift surgery can treat include:
- Jowls from lax skin and excess fat in the lower face
- Loose neck skin
- Excess fat under the chin
- Abnormal contours and muscle banding in the neck
Can a neck lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes, a neck lift can be combined with other rejuvenation procedures in Doral, Pinecrest, Coral Gables, and West Kendall. Examples include a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or chin augmentation.
Can liposuction be performed in place of a neck lift?
Liposuction may be performed in conjunction with a neck lift to remove excess fat. Liposuction alone may be sufficient for a young person with good skin elasticity who has excess fat because the skin will contract after fat removal. If there is excess loose skin, however, liposuction alone will not be enough.
Is any preparation needed for neck lift surgery?
Your doctor may instruct you to stop taking blood-thinning medications for several days before surgery. These may include aspirin, ibuprofen, and other medications. If you smoke, your doctor will likely recommend that you quit before the procedure, as smoking slows healing and promotes wrinkling. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for the first night.
How much discomfort can I expect after neck lift surgery?
Your neck may feel tight and sore, and you may experience some discomfort for 24 to 48 hours after surgery. This can be easily managed with prescription pain medications. You may experience temporary numbness due to disruption of the nerve endings. It may help to gently massage the treatment area while you heal.
When will I see the results of my neck lift procedure?
You should see a difference right away after the procedure, but full results will not be visible immediately because of swelling and bruising. The new contours of the neck will begin to show more after a few weeks, as swelling and bruising subside. It may take a few months for swelling to resolve completely and for final results to appear.
How long will neck lift results last?
Neck lift results are long-lasting, but the aging process continues. As the years pass, sagging skin and wrinkles may reappear in the neck area. You should still look better than you would if you had never had the surgery.
