Neck Lift: Redefining Your Neck Contour

A neck lift, also known as submentoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that effectively addresses the signs of aging and laxity in the neck and jawline. As we age, or following significant weight loss, the skin in the neck region can lose its elasticity and gather in a flap, leading to sagging, jowls, and the formation of a “double chin.” A neck lift can effectively tighten sagging skin, remove excess fat, and redefine the neck contour, creating a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Ideal Candidates for Neck Lift Surgery

Suitable candidates for neck lift surgery typically exhibit the following characteristics:

• Sagging neck skin: Individuals with loose, wrinkled, or drooping skin in the neck area can benefit from a neck lift to tighten and smooth the skin.

• Jowls: The presence of jowls, which are fleshy protrusions along the jawline, can be effectively addressed through a neck lift.

• Neck banding: Horizontal bands of skin or muscle that appear across the neck can be smoothed and eliminated with a neck lift.

• “Turkey wattle”: The formation of excess skin beneath the chin, resembling a turkey’s wattle, can be corrected through a neck lift.

• Significant weight loss: Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and are seeking to tighten the resulting sagging skin in the neck area may benefit from a neck lift.

Combining Neck Lift with Other Procedures

A neck lift can be effectively combined with other cosmetic procedures to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Common combinations include:

• Facelift: A facelift can be performed in conjunction with a neck lift to address sagging skin and wrinkles on the face, creating a more harmonious and youthful overall appearance.

• Brow lift: A brow lift can be combined with a neck lift to elevate drooping eyebrows, resulting in a more open and rejuvenated upper facial area.

• Liposuction: Liposuction can be performed to remove excess fat deposits from the neck and submental area, further enhancing the contouring and definition achieved by the neck lift.

Neck Lift Procedure

The neck lift procedure typically involves the following steps:

• Cervicoplasty: For this technique, incisions are discreetly placed behind the ears. Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is lifted and secured in its new position using sutures.

• Platysmaplasty: This technique involves incisions underneath the chin to address underlying muscle laxity. Excess or weakened muscles are tightened or repositioned to provide better support and definition to the neck contour.

Depending on the extent of the procedure and whether liposuction is performed, the neck lift can take approximately two to three hours. Stitches are typically removed after one to two weeks.

Recovery from Neck Lift Surgery

Following a neck lift, patients may experience some discomfort or pain, which can be effectively managed with medication prescribed by the surgeon. To minimize swelling, patients are advised to sleep with their head elevated. Other common post-operative symptoms include bruising, tightness in the neck, and temporary numbness. These symptoms gradually subside as healing progresses and the neck adjusts to its new contour.

Most patients can resume normal activities within one to two weeks following a neck lift. Light exercise can be resumed within two to three weeks, and more strenuous activities can be gradually introduced within four to six weeks.

Conclusion

A neck lift can effectively restore a youthful and defined neck contour, addressing the visible signs of aging and laxity. By carefully considering your individual needs and goals, you can work with your surgeon to determine if a neck lift is the right option for you to reclaim your youthful appearance.