Neck Lift Surgery

Neck lift surgery is one of the most transformative procedures in cosmetic medicine. By removing excess skin and fat deposits from the neck area, and possibly restructuring the underlying muscle, a qualified plastic surgeon can dramatically rejuvenate a patient's appearance. The procedure, itself, is one of the safest and most reliable in plastic surgery. Indeed, with the advances made in surgical technology over the past decade, modern neck lift surgery can be performed with minimal incisions and scarring while producing exceptionally natural-looking results.

Preparing for Neck Lift Surgery

It should be noted that, although neck lift surgery is a safe procedure, it is still a major, invasive surgery. As such, patients should expect to make certain adjustments to their lifestyles in the weeks before undergoing the procedure. Alcohol, excessively fatty and sugary foods, and over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided. Likewise, smokers should be prepared to refrain from smoking in the weeks before and after undergoing neck lift surgery, as consumption of tobacco can interfere with the healing process. Patients will attend an appointment between their initial consultation and their actual surgery, during which complete pre- and post-operative instructions will be given.

The Neck Lift Procedure

The neck lift is a relatively straightforward procedure that generally lasts between two and three hours. The type of anesthesia administered at the beginning of the procedure depends largely on the preferences of the patient and the surgeon. Many patients require only local anesthesia combined with a sedative; however, some choose to be unconscious during the surgery and opt for general anesthesia.

The scope of the procedure varies according to the unique needs and goals of individual patients. Some patients achieve their desired results through a simple liposuction procedure, which involves the removal of excess deposits of fat from the neck. More dramatic results can be achieved through the removal of excess skin and fat along with the tightening and restructuring of the underlying muscles. Neck lift surgery is often performed in conjunction with other facial surgeries, such as face lift, brow lift, and eyelid surgery.

Modern techniques and technology allow surgeons to perform neck lift surgery using extremely small incisions, usually placed discreetly behind the ears and under the chin. Through these incisions, excess fat is removed, either via liposuction or through surgical excision. If desired, slack muscles can be tightened; in some cases, a small section of the platysma muscle may even be removed. Once the appropriate work involving the underlying tissues has been completed, the skin will be replaced and pulled taut, and the incisions will be sutured closed. Any excess skin will be removed at this point, as well.

For information about what to expect after neck lift surgery, please visit the DocShop page devoted to neck lift results and recovery.

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Photo credit: El Paso Cosmetic Surgery

Find Out More about Neck Lift Surgery

When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon with a keen eye for aesthetics, neck lift surgery can make a person look dramatically younger and trimmer. The techniques and technology used to perform neck lift surgery will differ from patient to patient and from practice to practice. To find out more about neck lift surgery and how you might benefit from the procedure, please contact a reputable surgeon in the DocShop directory of healthcare experts.