Neck Lift Surgery

Understanding the Neck Lift Procedure

At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center, Dr. Michelle Hardaway provides exceptional neck lift procedures that can dramatically rejuvenate your appearance. A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to address visible signs of aging in the neck and jawline area, restoring a more youthful, defined profile. If you’re concerned about excess skin and fat around your neck, a sagging jawline, or the appearance of “turkey neck,” a neck lift or lower rhytidectomy is a transformative solution that can help you regain confidence in your appearance.

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(248) 780-0558

Why Choose Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center for Neck Lift Surgery

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides unparalleled expertise in neck rejuvenation procedures. Led by Dr. Michelle Hardaway, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience, our center offers the perfect combination of surgical skill, artistic vision, and compassionate care. Dr. Hardaway’s extensive credentials include serving as the former Chief of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Detroit Receiving Hospital and her current position as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery at Wayne State University.

What sets our approach to neck lift surgery apart is Dr. Hardaway’s commitment to natural-looking results that enhance rather than dramatically alter your appearance. Each neck lift procedure is customized to address your specific concerns, whether you’re struggling with excess skin, stubborn fat deposits, or muscle laxity in the neck area. Our QUADA-accredited surgical suite provides a safe, comfortable environment for your procedure, ensuring the highest standards of care throughout your surgical journey.

woman tightening the chin before and after the procedure

Neck Rejuvenation: Understanding the Neck Lift Procedure

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides transformative neck rejuvenation through expertly performed neck lift surgery. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that specifically targets the signs of aging in the neck and jawline, creating a more defined and youthful appearance. During your comprehensive consultation, Dr. Hardaway will carefully evaluate the condition of your neck skin, underlying muscles, and fat distribution to determine the most effective approach for your unique anatomy.

The neck lift procedure typically involves strategically placed incisions behind the ears and sometimes under the chin, allowing Dr. Hardaway to access the underlying structures of the neck. Through these incisions, she can remove excess skin and fat, tighten the platysma muscle (which often causes visible neck bands), and redrape the skin for a smoother contour. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple concerns simultaneously, including:

Sagging skin along the jawline (jowls)
Excess fat beneath the chin
Loose, crepey skin on the neck
Visible muscle bands or “turkey neck”
Loss of definition between the neck and jawline

Many patients combine their neck lift with complementary procedures such as a facelift, chin enhancement, or eyelid surgery for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. During your consultation, Dr. Hardaway will discuss whether a minimally invasive neck lift or a more traditional approach would best achieve your aesthetic goals.

Surgical Procedure: The Neck Lift Process Explained

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides meticulous surgical procedure planning and execution for every neck lift. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that requires both technical expertise and artistic vision to achieve optimal results. Dr. Hardaway’s approach to the neck lift or lower rhytidectomy is comprehensive, addressing all the components that contribute to an aging neck appearance.

The procedure begins with the administration of either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, ensuring your comfort throughout the surgery. Dr. Hardaway then makes carefully placed incisions, typically beginning in the hairline at the level of the sideburn, continuing around the ear, and ending in the posterior hair. In some cases, a small incision under the chin may also be necessary to access the neck muscles and remove excess fat.

Through these incisions, Dr. Hardaway performs several key steps:

Tissue Repositioning: Underlying tissues are repositioned to restore youthful contours
Muscle Tightening: The platysma muscle is tightened to eliminate banding
Fat Removal or Redistribution: Excess fat is removed or repositioned for improved definition
Skin Redraping: Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is redraped over the new contours
Closure: Incisions are meticulously closed with sutures designed to minimize visible scarring

The entire procedure typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity of your case and whether additional procedures are being performed simultaneously. Following surgery, a light compression bandage is applied to minimize swelling and support the new neck contours during the initial healing phase.

Dr. Hardaway’s surgical technique is designed to create natural-looking results that avoid the overly tight or “operated on” appearance that can occur with less skilled practitioners. Her extensive experience in facial plastic surgery ensures that your neck lift results will complement your overall facial harmony.

Skin Tightening: Achieving Smoother, Firmer Neck Contours

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides revolutionary skin tightening techniques as part of every neck lift procedure. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that excels at addressing one of the most common signs of aging: loose, sagging skin in the neck area. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and collagen, resulting in the dreaded “turkey neck” appearance that can add years to our perceived age.

Dr. Hardaway’s approach to skin tightening during a neck lift or lower rhytidectomy is comprehensive and customized to each patient’s unique anatomy. The procedure removes excess skin and fat while simultaneously tightening the underlying tissues to create a smooth, firm neck contour. This dual approach ensures long-lasting results that resist the ongoing effects of aging.

For patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, Dr. Hardaway may recommend less invasive options such as Profound Candela treatments, which combine radiofrequency energy with microneedling to stimulate collagen production. For those with more significant skin laxity, a traditional neck lift provides the most dramatic improvement.

The skin tightening benefits of a neck lift include:

Elimination of horizontal neck lines and wrinkles
Smoothing of crepey skin texture
Reduction of visible platysmal bands
Restoration of a clean, defined jawline
Creation of an elegant neck contour

Following your procedure, Dr. Hardaway will provide detailed instructions on post-operative care to maintain your results, including recommended skincare products and treatments that can help preserve your skin’s new, tighter appearance.

Visit Before & After Gallery

Aesthetic Enhancement: Creating Harmony Between Face and Neck

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides comprehensive aesthetic enhancement through expertly performed neck lift surgery. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that does more than just improve the neck—it restores harmony and balance to your entire facial appearance. Many patients don’t realize how significantly the neck contributes to overall facial aesthetics until they see the transformative results of their procedure.

Dr. Michelle Hardaway approaches each neck lift with an artist’s eye, ensuring that the improvements to your neck complement your other facial features. This holistic approach to aesthetic enhancement is what separates a merely good result from a truly exceptional one.

The neck lift or lower rhytidectomy can dramatically improve your profile by:

Creating a more defined transition between the face and neck
Restoring a youthful neck angle
Eliminating the appearance of a double chin
Enhancing jawline definition
Improving overall facial proportions

Many patients report that their neck lift makes them look as though they’ve lost weight, even when their actual weight remains unchanged. This is because a sleek, well-defined neck creates the impression of a slimmer, more youthful appearance overall.

Dr. Hardaway often recommends combining a neck lift with complementary procedures such as chin augmentation, fat grafting, or dermal fillers to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation. During your consultation, she’ll discuss how these additional treatments might enhance your neck lift results for optimal aesthetic enhancement.

Cosmetic Procedure: What to Expect Before, During, and After

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides detailed guidance throughout the cosmetic procedure process for neck lift patients. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that requires careful planning and preparation to ensure optimal results. Understanding what to expect at each stage of the process can help you feel more confident and prepared for your transformation.

Before Your Procedure:

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Michelle Hardaway. During this initial meeting, she’ll:

Evaluate your neck anatomy and skin condition
Discuss your aesthetic goals and expectations
Review your medical history and current medications
Explain the different techniques available for neck rejuvenation
Recommend the most appropriate approach for your specific needs
Provide detailed pre-operative instructions

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, you’ll need to:

Stop smoking and avoid nicotine products
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements
Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery
Prepare your recovery space with the necessary supplies

During Your Procedure:

On the day of your neck lift or lower rhytidectomy:

The procedure is typically performed in our state-of-the-art, QUADA-accredited surgical suite
Anesthesia will be administered for your comfort
Dr. Hardaway will make carefully placed incisions that minimize visible scarring
The surgery usually takes 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity
You’ll be monitored closely throughout the entire procedure

After Your Procedure:

Following your neck lift surgery:

You’ll wear a supportive neck garment for approximately one week
Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are normal and typically resolve within 2-3 weeks
Pain is usually minimal and can be managed with prescribed medications
Most patients return to work and light activities within 10-14 days
Full recovery, including resolution of all swelling, may take 3-6 months
Regular follow-up appointments will allow Dr. Hardaway to monitor your healing progress

Dr. Hardaway and our dedicated team will provide comprehensive post-operative care instructions and remain available to answer any questions that arise during your recovery period.

Plastic Surgery: The Expertise Behind Your Neck Lift

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides world-class plastic surgery expertise for every neck lift procedure. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that demands both technical skill and artistic vision—qualities that Dr. Michelle Hardaway has refined over her 30+ years as a board-certified plastic surgeon. When choosing a surgeon for your neck lift or lower rhytidectomy, credentials and experience matter tremendously.

Dr. Hardaway’s impressive background includes:

Board certification in plastic surgery
Fellowship of the American College of Surgeons (F.A.C.S.)
Former Chief of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Detroit Receiving Hospital
Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery at Wayne State University
Extensive training, including a burn fellowship at Wayne State University
Affiliations with major hospitals in Metro Detroit, including Beaumont (Corwell Health Royal Oak), Providence Hospitals, and Detroit Medical Center Hospitals

This exceptional training and experience translate directly to superior surgical outcomes. Dr. Hardaway’s deep understanding of facial anatomy allows her to address the complex interplay between skin, muscle, fat, and underlying structures during your neck lift procedure.

Her surgical approach is both comprehensive and nuanced, focusing on:

Precise tissue handling to minimize trauma
Meticulous attention to incision placement for minimal scarring
Balanced tension to avoid an unnatural “pulled” appearance
Preservation of natural contours while removing excess skin and fat
Customization of techniques to suit your unique anatomy

Dr. Hardaway stays current with the latest advancements in plastic surgery through ongoing education and professional development, ensuring that her patients benefit from the most effective and innovative approaches to neck rejuvenation.

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Michelle Hardaway. During this initial meeting, she’ll:

Evaluate your neck anatomy and skin condition
Discuss your aesthetic goals and expectations
Review your medical history and current medications
Explain the different techniques available for neck rejuvenation
Recommend the most appropriate approach for your specific needs
Provide detailed pre-operative instructions

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, you’ll need to:

Stop smoking and avoid nicotine products
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements
Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery
Prepare your recovery space with the necessary supplies

During Your Procedure:

On the day of your neck lift or lower rhytidectomy:

The procedure is typically performed in our state-of-the-art, QUADA-accredited surgical suite
Anesthesia will be administered for your comfort
Dr. Hardaway will make carefully placed incisions that minimize visible scarring
The surgery usually takes 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity
You’ll be monitored closely throughout the entire procedure

After Your Procedure:

Following your neck lift surgery:

You’ll wear a supportive neck garment for approximately one week
Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are normal and typically resolve within 2-3 weeks
Pain is usually minimal and can be managed with prescribed medications
Most patients return to work and light activities within 10-14 days
Full recovery, including resolution of all swelling, may take 3-6 months
Regular follow-up appointments will allow Dr. Hardaway to monitor your healing progress

Dr. Hardaway and our dedicated team will provide comprehensive post-operative care instructions and remain available to answer any questions that arise during your recovery period.

What Our Patients Say About Their Neck Lift Results

“After years of hiding my neck with scarves and high collars, I finally decided to consult with Dr. Hardaway about a neck lift. The surgical procedure was much easier than I expected, and the results are simply amazing. My neck looks decades younger, and the skin-tightening effect has given me back my confidence. The entire team at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center made the experience comfortable from consultation through recovery.”
– Margaret T., Farmington Hills

“At 62, my neck was showing significant signs of aging that made me look much older than I felt. Dr. Hardaway recommended a combination of a neck lift and minimal liposuction for optimal neck rejuvenation. The cosmetic procedure was expertly performed, and six months later, I’m still receiving compliments on how refreshed I look. The plastic surgery skill Dr. Hardaway possesses is truly remarkable—my results look completely natural.”
– Robert S., Royal Oak

“The aesthetic enhancement I received through my neck lift has transformed not just my appearance but my confidence. Dr. Hardaway took the time to explain every aspect of the surgical procedure and set realistic expectations. The actual results exceeded what I hoped for—my jawline is defined again, and the visible signs of aging that bothered me for years are gone. I only wish I’d done it sooner!”
– Jennifer L., Detroit

“After significant weight loss, I was left with excess skin and fat in my neck area that diet and exercise couldn’t address. The neck lift Dr. Hardaway performed gave me the final transformation I was seeking. Her attention to detail and commitment to natural-looking results made all the difference. The skin tightening was dramatic yet looks completely natural—exactly what I wanted.”
– Thomas B., Birmingham

Dr. Hardaway and our dedicated team will provide comprehensive post-operative care instructions and remain available to answer any questions that arise during your recovery period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Lift Surgery

Q: How do I know if I’m a good candidate for a neck lift?

A: Ideal candidates for a neck lift or lower rhytidectomy are individuals who are in good overall health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. You may be a good candidate if you have excess skin and fat in the neck area, visible muscle banding, a poorly defined jawline, or a “turkey neck” appearance. During your consultation at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center, Dr. Michelle Hardaway will evaluate your specific concerns and determine if a neck lift is the most appropriate surgical procedure for your needs.

Q: How long do neck lift results last?

A: A neck lift provides long-lasting improvement in the appearance of the neck and jawline. Most patients enjoy their results for 10-15 years, though the natural aging process will continue. Factors that can affect the longevity of your results include genetics, sun exposure, weight fluctuations, and lifestyle habits. Dr. Hardaway will provide recommendations for maintaining your results through proper skincare, sun protection, and possibly non-surgical skin tightening treatments as you continue to age.

Q: Will there be visible scarring after a neck lift?

A: Dr. Hardaway takes great care to place incisions where they will be well-concealed, typically behind the ears and sometimes in a small crease beneath the chin. For most patients, these scars fade significantly over time and are easily hidden by natural hair patterns. Our comprehensive post-operative care includes scar management techniques to ensure optimal healing and minimal visibility of incision lines.

Q: How painful is recovery from a neck lift?

A: Most patients report that recovery from a neck lift is surprisingly comfortable, with more discomfort than actual pain. Any discomfort is typically well-managed with prescribed pain medication for the first few days, followed by over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Swelling and bruising are normal parts of the healing process and generally subside within 2-3 weeks.

Q: Can a neck lift be combined with other procedures?

A: Yes, many patients choose to combine their neck lift with complementary procedures for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Common combinations include:

Facelift for upper and mid-face improvement
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) to address aging eyes
Chin augmentation to improve profile and jawline definition
Fat grafting to restore lost volume in the face
Laser skin resurfacing for improved skin texture and tone

Dr. Hardaway will discuss whether combining procedures is appropriate for your specific situation during your consultation.

Schedule Your Neck Lift Consultation Today

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center provides exceptional results for patients seeking neck rejuvenation through expert neck lift surgery. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that can dramatically improve your appearance and boost your confidence by addressing visible signs of aging in the neck and jawline area. Under the skilled hands of Dr. Michelle Hardaway, this transformative procedure can help you achieve a more youthful, defined profile that better reflects how you feel inside.

Don’t let an aging neck continue to affect your self-confidence. Take the first step toward a more youthful appearance by scheduling your personal consultation with Dr. Hardaway. During this meeting, she’ll evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and create a customized treatment plan that may include a neck lift or lower rhytidectomy along with complementary procedures for optimal aesthetic enhancement.

Our team is committed to providing exceptional care throughout your surgical journey, from your initial consultation through your recovery and beyond. Experience the difference that Dr. Hardaway’s 30+ years of plastic surgery expertise can make in your neck lift results.

Call Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center today at (248) 780-0558 or (248) 221-1957 to schedule your consultation and discover how a neck lift can help you look as young as you feel.

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Call: (248) 780-0558

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