A neck lift is a surgical procedure used to tighten loose skin around the lower jaw and neck. This is a good option for those who are older, and looking to remove larger amounts of loose skin. To perform the surgery, incisions are made either under the chin or behind the ears, to access the neck muscles. The skin and muscles are then tightened and secured. This tightens the muscles around the neck, as well as the skin, smoothing out wrinkles and creases in the skin. It also improves the appearance of vertical neckbands. This surgery is often combined with procedures such as a facelift.
Sagging skin, excess fat, or the appearance of neck cords can be corrected with neck lift surgery. The necklift can restore a clean and well defined neck and jawline. The results can improve facial shape and balance, give the appearance of weight loss and a healthier and more youthful look.
Dr. Michelle Hardaway, Medical Director of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Center will meet with each patient individually to evaluated and determine the best corrective procedure or type of neck lift. If the skin is lax or if there is extra skin, a skin tightening procedure with incisions behind the ears is usually best.
If skin tone is adequate, excess fat can be removed with liposuction alone.
Neck cords are due to laxity in the neck muscle (platysma). An anterior neck lift (platysmaplasty) can be performed with a small well concealed incision under the chin.
The neck lift can be performed in conjunction with a, facelift or as a procedure on its own, and is commonly performed in our office. For your safety and comfort, an anesthetist carefully monitors during intravenous sedation.
During the neck lift, Dr. Hardaway will remove excess fat from below the chin or neck using a gentle liposuction procedure. Then, excess skin is carefully trimmed away. The remaining skin will be tightened, offering a more youthful look. Patients will return home with a neck support garment, an elastic dressing that allows the treated area to heal properly, and wear it for a week to maintain the neck’s new position. Post-operative bruising will take one to two weeks to resolve. Like all surgical procedures, Necklift entails some risk. We encourage all patients to learn as much about the Necklift and recovery before undergoing a procedure. We look forward to helping you learn more during a personalized consultation.
Common procedures performed with Neck Lift include: Face lift, Eyelid Procedures, Chin Enhancement, Fat Transfers, and Brow Lift.
Botox to muscles of the neck is another, less invasive, option to help alter the appearance of the neck. This can help tighten the muscles around the neck, resulting in a tighter appearance of the neck overall. This can be used in conjunction to neck lift surgery and other procedures or on its own. Dr. Hardaway performs these procedures at her office as well. During your face and neck consultation, she will help you find the course of action that will help suit your specific needs.