What is a necklift?
A neck lift, also know as lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck. The procedure can treat excess fat and skin relaxation in the lower face, excess fatty deposits under the chin, loose neck skin, and muscle banding in the neck, which created abnormal contours.
What is a necklift procedure like?
Intravenous sedation or anesthesia will be administered so that you will be comfortable during nose surgery. A neck lift incision often begins in the hairline at the level of the side burn, continues down and around the ear and ends in the posterior hair. Fat may be either sculpted or redistributed from the jowls and neck. The tissue underlying the neck skin is re-positioned, and commonly the platysma muscle is tightened. Skin is re-draped over the uplifted contours and the excess skin is trimmed away. A separate incision under the chin is often necessary for liposuction of this area and for repair of the muscle. The incisions are closed with sutures or skin adhesives.
What should I expect during recovery?
Following neck lift surgery, a bandage may be gently placed around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. A thin tube may be present to draw off any excess blood or fluid. When the swelling and bruising subside, the visible improvements of a necklift will begin to appear. The incision lines from a necklift are well concealed within the hairline and in the natural contours of the ear. When healing is complete, the result should restore a more youthful and rested appearance.
Your head should be kept elevated above your heart to minimize swelling and to keep your head straight (no excessive twisting or bending of the neck). DO NOT APPLY ICE to the neck as this can compromise blood flow and result in skin death.
Who is a good candidate for a necklift?
When an individual notes excess wrinkling of the neck skin that does not match the upper facial appearance, a necklift may be a good solution. Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that impair healing, are nonsmokers, and have a positive outlook and realistic expectations for results are good candidates for a necklift.
