Neck Lift
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that diminishes the visible signs of aging around the jawline and neck areas. Do you look in the mirror and see sagging skin under your chin? Is the skin loose and wrinkled on your neck? A neck lift may be a great treatment option for you.
Frequently combined with a facelift procedure, rejuvenation of the neck and lower face can help take years off of your appearance. Aging, stress, weight loss and even genetics can all contribute to the aging appearance of your neck.
You may be a good candidate for a neck lift if you have:
- Excess fat and skin in your neck or beneath your chin.
- Loose or sagging tissue in the lower face and are considering a facelift.
- Muscle banding in the neck
About Neck Lifts
Dr. Tepper will gladly review the incision size and location and whether an incision beneath the chin would be of benefit. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The choice may be influenced by health factors and the anticipated length of surgery.
Liposuction is a common adjunct to neck lift procedures, helping to remove added fat. But there are other ways to achieve a similar outcome.
The underlying platysma muscle may be sutured together in the midline, helping to reduce or eliminate central banding that may occur. The muscle may also be cut lower down in the neck to help with contour. The skin is re-draped and excess skin is removed.
At times, a more limited incision may be possible, and Dr. Tepper will gladly review the potential benefits and limitations of such. A gentle compression bandage will be applied at the conclusion of the procedure. Patients have the option of going home the same day or taking advantage of specially reduced overnight facility stays.
BeforeAfter 
Recovery
Most patients experience some soreness and stiffness. Sutures are removed in about a week. A small drain may be used and is removed within a few days. You will be advised to keep your head elevated for a few days.
The initial bandages are removed after a day or two, and gentle compression garments are then worn periodically over the next few weeks to help the tissues adhere in their new position. Most people can drive after the first week and return to work in the second or third week.
There may be considerable variability, depending on the amount of surgery performed, overall health, work functions and other obligations.
As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential complications that may occur. Fortunately, they are uncommon. Hematoma formation, the pooling of blood under the skin that must be surgically removed, is undesirable with regards to surgical wound healing and
Dr. Tepper will discuss some specific measures to minimize this risk. Infection and other reactions, either to medication or anesthesia, are also quite uncommon.
