Patients that undergo a neck lift procedure are usually those that do not want or need a full facelift because the upper parts of their face are not problematic areas. For many, the neck and jawline do not match the pleasant contours and symmetry of the upper face, which is when a neck lift becomes a viable option.

If you notice visible signs of aging or your neck area does not match the appearance of your facial features, a neck lift may be the right procedure for you. Patients that undergo a neck lift should be in good health, be non-smokers, and not have medical conditions that may impair healing.

During your consultation, your board-certified plastic surgeon will discuss your goals with you and perform an evaluation to ensure that you are a good candidate for a neck lift procedure. At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we never perform any procedure unless we are certain that it is the best course of treatment for you.

Be prepared to discuss your medical history, including all known allergies and previous surgical procedures. Your plastic surgeon will also review the entire process with you and make sure that you are aware of any potential complications associated with a neck lift.

Like most surgical procedures, a neck lift is performed by first administering a general anesthetic to ensure comfort during the operation. Then, depending on your aesthetic goals, your surgeon may perform either a traditional neck lift, or a limited incision neck lift.

During a traditional neck lift, the incision is made at the hairline near the sideburns and extends around the ear, as close to the hairline as possible to hide any visible scarring that may occur. In a limited incision neck lift, shorter incisions are made only around the ear. The type and length of the incisions depends on the extent of the procedure.

After the incisions are made, the tissue beneath the neck skin is repositioned. Muscles and soft tissue are tightened and excess fat is removed or redistributed. Skin is repositioned and tightened over the contours of the neck and chin and any loose or excess skin is removed.

Once the corrections are made, the incisions are closed using sutures and the patient is transferred to a post-anesthesia care unit

A neck lift is an outpatient procedure, so patients are typically able to go home the same day. Swelling and bruising at the site of the incisions are normal. It is very important to follow all instructions given by your surgeon, including medications, wound care, and follow-up appointments.

The sutures are usually removed within a few days of the procedure. In the interim, patients should keep their head elevated slightly and avoid bending or twisting their neck excessively. Do not apply ice directly to the neck or chin because it can reduce blood flow in the affected areas.

Swelling and bruising typically go away within a few weeks. The full results of a neck lift will be visible within a month after the procedure.

A neck lift is an outpatient procedure, so patients are typically able to go home the same day. Swelling and bruising at the site of the incisions are normal. It is very important to follow all instructions given by your surgeon, including medications, wound care, and follow-up appointments.

The sutures are usually removed within a few days of the procedure. In the interim, patients should keep their head elevated slightly and avoid bending or twisting their neck excessively. Do not apply ice directly to the neck or chin because it can reduce blood flow in the affected areas.

Swelling and bruising typically go away within a few weeks. The full results of a neck lift will be visible within a month after the procedure.

The average cost of a neck lift in the United States is approximately $4,500, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, this figure will vary depending on geographic location, the plastic surgeon, and your aesthetic goals.

At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we will provide you with a detailed cost breakdown during the initial consultation. Most health insurance providers do not cover any of the costs associated with a neck lift, so if necessary, speak with your plastic surgeon about potential financing options.

If you would like to learn more about neck lifts, or you have questions about the procedure, give us a call to schedule a consultation. We will make sure that you understand the entire procedure all the way through recovery, and we are always upfront about the associated costs and potential risks involved with plastic surgery. If you are looking for a more youthful and natural-looking appearance, contact the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago today.

All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.