Your neck is one of the first places that start to show the signs of aging. Turkey wattles, fatty jowls and horizontal creases all work make us look older than we really are. Having a neck lift improves your appearance by tightening both the loose skin and underlying muscles, which improves the sharpness and contour of your profile. Oftentimes, a neck lift is performed in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction, facelift or cheek lift.
What is a neck lift?
As the name suggests, a neck lift is a cosmetic procedure that addresses fat, loose skin and banding that often happens as we get older. But the type of neck lift you have will depend on several factors, which include:
● Quality of skin
● Laxity of skin
● Presence of a turkey wattle
● Severity of jowling
What are my options?
If you only have excess fat but your skin quality is good, you may only need to have liposuction of the neck area to correct the problem. If you suffer from more significant signs of aging, such as skin laxity, jowls or a turkey wattle, you may need a more extensive procedure to reach your aesthetic goals.
When to Consider a Neck Lift?
In addition to the natural aging process, there are other reasons why you should consider having a neck lift. For example, losing a significant amount of weight can cause unwanted skin laxity that doesn’t respond to topical treatments or minimally invasive treatments, such as fractional lasers.
Pros and Cons of a Neck Lift?
Having a neck lift can do wonders to restore self-esteem and restore a more youthful appearance. However, there are other factors you need to take into consideration. For instance, it’s not uncommon for you to notice the signs of aging in other areas of your face after having a neck lift.
In addition, you may also have a feeling of tightness in your neck that lasts for several months following the procedure. As with any surgical procedure, there is always a risk of infection or bleeding postoperatively, so it’s imperative that you follow your surgeon’s instructions after having a neck lift. For your safety, as well as the most positive outcome, it’s important to follow up with your surgeon as directed. Don’t be afraid to contact your surgeon should you have questions or concerns.
How is a full neck lift performed?
If your cosmetic issues cannot be addressed with liposuction alone, a full neck lift procedure is as follows:
● Incisions are made under your chin or behind your ears depending on the type of neck lift you and your surgeon have chosen
● The platysma muscle then tightened and sewn together similar to the way shoelaces are tied
● Excess fat and skin are then carefully trimmed away and sutured back into place
Am I a candidate for a neck lift?
The following are several reasons why many patients undergo a neck lift procedure:
● You have developed unwanted folds and creasing in your neck
● Excess skin and fatty deposits
● You have lost the sharp jawline you once had and want to restore a more youthful appearance
The incisional approach will depend on the type of neck lift you have. If a full neck lift is performed, small incisions will be made under your chin and behind each ear. If you only require minimal lifting, you may only need a submental incision or an incision behind each ear.
If you are in good health, have realistic expectations and have a positive outlook, you’re are most likely a good candidate for the procedure.
How long is the recovery time?
Typically, recovery time after a neck lift is one week to two weeks. Your surgeon will discuss the specifics of the procedure and advise how long you need to wait before resuming normal activities. After the procedure, you will receive detailed instructions about postoperative care, which includes:
● Appropriate postoperative care of incision sites
● Possible signs of infection
● Normal postoperative symptoms you may experience
How long do the results last?
You can expect the results of your neck lift to last between 10 to 15 years. Results depend on the type of neck lift you have, genetics and appropriate postoperative care.
Above all else, you need to choose a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable. You should always feel as if you can reach to them with any concerns you have. Having a neck lift is an extensive surgical procedure, which should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Dr. Andrew Jacono as a qualified plastic surgeon in New York who specializes in reconstructive surgery. He has earned the title of the best facial plastic surgeon in America. Learn more about the types of procedures he performs and how he helps his patients achieve their desired look by checking his website at newyorkfacialplasticsurgery.
Pinstripe Magazine Staff
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