Most of us neglect our delicate neck skin, forgetting to give it the sun protection and skincare we give our faces. Many of us have started to store fat under our chins and around our necks. If you experience these problems, it may be time to consider a neck lift. This neck surgery removes excess skin and fat for a more sculpted neck and jaw.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is performed on the neck area to tighten loose skin, remove fat, and repair muscles. This procedure, also known as a lower rhytidectomy or lower facelift, addresses the neck and jawline. LPS surgeons frequently combine a facelift and neck lift to achieve the desired rejuvenation. The effects of a neck lift provide a dramatically younger, more sculpted appearance that will make you feel more confident every time you look in the mirror.
Am I a Candidate for a Neck Lift?
Your LPS surgeon may recommend a neck lift if you have loose neck skin, submental (under the chin) fat, or muscle bands in the neck area. Only a full assessment can determine whether a neck lift will achieve the results you hope to see. Good candidates are healthy enough for neck surgery and have reasonable expectations.
While adults of any age can have a neck lift, typical candidates range from their 50s to 60s. Sagging skin and visible bands of neck muscle usually appear as we age. However, some younger people who have noticed these signs at a younger age may prefer to treat them earlier. Genetics affects how quickly your neck area shows signs of aging.
How is a Neck Lift Surgery Performed?
Depending on your concerns, your surgeon will develop a customized plan for your neck lift. A cervicoplasty is performed to remove excess skin, while a platysmaplasty repairs separated or loose neck muscles. Many neck lifts involve both procedures.
Your surgeon uses small incisions under the chin and hairline and around the ears to lift and tighten excess skin. The incisions will become almost invisible when healed. After tightening the skin and repairing the muscles, your surgeon closes the incisions. You will recover briefly before we release you to go home.
What is Recovery Like After a Neck Lift?
You can expect discomfort and swelling after neck surgery, especially for the first few days. While we recommend moving around to improve circulation, you should spend this time resting so your body can heal. You might return to work in as little as a week if you have a physically inactive job. Those with more active jobs can return after two to three weeks.
Should I Have a Neck Lift or a Facelift?
Neck lifts and facelifts are among the most effective rejuvenation procedures. Neck surgery can have dramatic results. However, neck sagging often accompanies facial laxity and wrinkles. In this case, a facelift with a neck lift will provide a youthful appearance for the entire mid-face to the neck.
Take the Next Step
Interested in learning about neck lifts? Schedule your consultation with Longwood Plastic Surgery today by calling our Brookline office at (617) 383-6250. We serve the Brookline and Greater Boston area with distinction.