A neck lift will lift and tighten loose, saggy skin on the neck and jaw line. Signs of aging skin can be improved and corrected using surgery.
Developing jowls – The lower part of your cheeks and under the chin can become soft and fleshy with age.
Loose skin and muscles – Weight loss, weight gain and aging can cause excess loose skin on the neck.
Fat buildup – Fat buildup in the neck can occur from a disposition of fat. This can be a difficult area to tone up with general weight loss techniques.
Neck sag – Loose skin on the neck leaves no place to hide. The sagging skin reveals age.
Decreased elasticity – Skin elasticity can be decreased due to age, sun damage and genetics.
A neck lift can be used to treat decreased elasticity, neck sag, fat buildup, loose skin and muscles and jowls. This treatment will restore youth and improve your self-image.
It is important to talk to your surgeon before the neck lift operation. Ask questions and take the time needed to fully understand the risks and benefits. It is significant that you know what to expect before having surgery.
The neck lift operation generally takes two to three hours. It is completed with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The surgeon may insert a small tube in your neck to drain fluid that can collect under the skin. There will be incisions and sutures. After waking and recovering from the anesthesia, you will need a friend or loved one to drive you home. It may take several weeks or months for the swelling to subside and to see the full results of the neck lift.
Most people need one week of rest and recovery. You will need someone to assist you during your recovery time at home. Follow your surgeon specific instructions.
The surgeon will usually remove the drain two days after the operation.
The stitches will be removed 5 to 10 days after the surgery.
Keep the area bandaged, during the day and night, for the first week. Your surgeon may recommend that you continue to wear the bandage in the evening, for a while. Be sure to follow all bandage instructions.
Pain medicine should be taken as directed by your surgeon. Over-the-counter medicines should not be taken without consulting your surgeon.
Applying a cold compress can reduce pain and swelling, but ice should not be placed directly onto the skin.
Your head should be raised, while lying down.
Hot showers and steam baths should not be used for several months. You can take a cool shower the day after the procedure.
All strenuous activities should be avoided for two weeks.
Returning to Work
People are usually permitted to return to work after two weeks
Individuals with a strenuous job or a job requiring heavy lifting should check with their surgeon before returning to full time work.
You may need to modify your workload or reduce your schedule. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions pertaining to returning to work.
These symptoms may last up to two weeks.
Bruising
Swelling
Numbness
Tightness
Tingling
Fever
Increased swelling, bleeding or redness
Consistent pain that will not go away with pain medication
Blood or leaking fluid from the incision site
Look younger
Experience an improved self-image
Increased self-confidence
Do not expect a neck lift to stop the natural progression of aging. Do not expect the neck lift to replace healthy choices, such as eating correctly and wearing sunscreen.
A neck lift will not stop the aging process.
You must continue to wear sunscreen.
You must continue to follow a healthy lifestyle.
Contact our plastic and reconstructive surgery team today to learn more about whether a neck lift is the right procedure for you.
