As we age, one of the first areas of the body to show visible signs of aging is the neck. The skin around the neck is delicate and more susceptible to sagging and the formation of loose skin. If you’ve noticed that the skin on your neck has lost its youthful firmness or that you’re developing unwanted lines and sagging, you’re not alone. The good news is that neck lift surgery can help restore a smooth, toned, and youthful appearance to your neck and jawline.
What is Neck Lift Surgery?
Neck lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure designed to address sagging skin, excess fat, and muscle laxity in the neck and jawline area. The goal of the surgery is to tighten and smooth the skin, remove excess fat, and restore a more defined and youthful contour to the neck. A neck lift can also involve tightening the platysma muscles (the muscles in the neck) to improve the overall appearance and address any “banding” or muscle separation that may contribute to sagging.
Often performed in combination with a facelift, a neck lift targets the lower part of the face and neck to create a smooth, toned, and lifted appearance. However, some patients opt for a neck lift alone to address neck-specific concerns.
What Concerns Does Neck Lift Surgery Address?
Neck lift surgery is an excellent option for addressing several common concerns that affect the neck as we age:
- Sagging Skin: As skin loses elasticity over time, it begins to sag, particularly around the jawline and neck. This can create a drooping or “turkey neck” appearance, which is one of the most common reasons people seek neck lift surgery.
- Excess Fat: Stubborn fat deposits in the neck can contribute to a double chin or undefined jawline. While weight loss may help reduce fat in other areas of the body, fat in the neck is often resistant to diet and exercise.
- Platysma Bands: The platysma muscles are located in the neck and, as we age, they can separate and form visible vertical bands. These bands can make the neck appear older or less toned, and a neck lift can restore muscle tone and eliminate these bands.
- Weak Jawline Definition: A loss of definition in the jawline can result from sagging skin and excess fat in the neck. A neck lift can help restore a sharper, more youthful jawline by tightening the skin and underlying muscles.
How Does Neck Lift Surgery Work?
Neck lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the surgery. The procedure usually takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity and whether it is combined with other procedures, such as a facelift.
The Process:
- Incision Placement: The surgeon will make incisions that are discreetly placed around the ears, beneath the chin, or in natural creases in the neck. The location of the incisions ensures that any visible scarring is minimal and well-hidden.
- Removal of Excess Skin and Fat: The surgeon will carefully remove any excess skin and fat to create a smoother, more defined contour. If there are fat deposits in the neck area, liposuction may be used to suction out the excess fat.
- Tightening of Muscles: The platysma muscles are tightened and repositioned to restore definition to the neck and improve the appearance of any muscle bands. This step helps to create a more youthful contour and eliminates the “turkey neck” look.
- Repositioning the Skin: The remaining skin is then pulled taut and re-draped over the newly tightened muscles. The incisions are carefully closed, and dressings may be applied to protect the area.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from neck lift surgery typically involves a few days of rest and gradual return to normal activities. It’s essential to follow Dr. Wu’s post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Most patients are able to return to work and resume normal activities after 2 to 3 weeks. However, it can take several months for the final results to fully emerge as swelling continues to subside and the skin tightens. You may need to avoid direct sun exposure to protect your incisions and minimize scarring. Full results typically become visible 3 to 6 months after surgery, with scars continuing to fade over time.
Why Choose a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is an excellent option for individuals who want to restore a youthful, defined appearance to their neck and jawline. This procedure addresses several concerns, including sagging skin, excess fat, and muscle bands, all of which can make the neck appear older. By tightening the skin and underlying muscles, a neck lift can significantly improve the contour of your neck and create a more youthful, refreshed look.
If you’re considering a neck lift, a board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Wu, can assess your specific needs, discuss your goals, and create a customized treatment plan that aligns with your vision.
Dr. Liza Wu Is Your Board-Certified Plastic And Reconstructive Surgeon
At Prive Plastics, we understand that choosing to undergo plastic surgery is a significant decision, and we want you to feel confident and reassured every step of the way. With Dr. Liza Wu and the Prive Plastics Team, you can trust that you’re in the hands of a skilled surgeon who is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with safety, precision, and care.
If you wonder if you are a good candidate for any of our surgical services, start with a TeleHealth consultation. After your personalized consultation for surgical services, you can look forward to treatment in a state-of-the-art office in Boca Raton. For customized treatment plans for your face and body, call Prive Plastic Surgery today at 561-717-3181.
