As we age, gravity, the daily stresses of life and exposure to the sun and the elements all contribute to the signs of the aging face and neck.  We often find that as a person ages, the skin of the lower third of the face and jawline begin to sag and become less defined. The skin of the neck becomes loose and there can be increased fat deposits that appear around the neck.  The superficial muscles of the neck also become loose and descend, creating the appearance of neck bands. In order to restore a more beautiful and youthful appearing neck, many people opt for neck lift surgery. A neck lift is similar to a facelift but focuses mainly on improving the appearance of the lower third of the face and the neck.

What does neck lift surgery involve?

The neck is one of the foremost areas of our body that gives away our age. Hanging and loose skin of the neck that has lost its elasticity over time can result in a shapeless, sagging, “gobble” neck. During a neck lift, your surgeon will tighten the neck muscles, remove excess skin and fat in order to create a smooth profile of the jawline and neck. People often have a facelift in combination with a neck lift, but it can also be a procedure performed on its own. A neck lift can help create an improved and more youthful appearance for you.

Is a neck lift the right option for me?

Opting for a neck lift is a very personal decision, and it’s not one that should be taken lightly. If you wish to obtain a more youthful appearance with a firmer, smoother and contoured neck, then a neck lift surgery is a great option. It’s important, however, that you are in good health, a non-smoker and have realistic expectations of the results. You need to also keep in mind that neck lift surgery is an invasive procedure and does come with the associated risks of surgery.

The specifics

This surgery is best for patients with loose neck skin, sagging jowls, and fat accumulation under the chin area. The incision begins in front of the earlobe and wraps around behind the ear and then finishes in the posterior scalp area. An incision may also be made underneath the chin for greater exposure of the anterior neck.  Liposuction may be performed to remove excess fat of the neck and jawline. The muscles of the anterior neck are incised and closed together centrally. The deeper tissue of the neck is then re suspended to improve the contour of the jawline and neck. During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will explain all the specific details of the surgery and will make you aware of any associated risks.

Recovery

After your neck lift surgery, it’s normal to feel sore or experience swelling for up to a few weeks. However, you should be able to care for yourself immediately after surgery. A bandage is often gently placed around the neck to help reduce any bruising or swelling that occurs as your face and neck gradually heals. After your surgery, you will be given specific instructions on how to care for your neck. This will include any medications you require to reduce pain, decrease infections or help with swelling.

We hope this information gives you some insight into what neck lift surgery involves. Before any surgery, you should discuss the details with your surgeon and ask them any questions you may have. Once your recovery period is over, you will be ready to show off your results with a new boost of confidence!