Age and gravity affect your neck in many ways. The skin and muscles of your neck absorb the stress of constantly stretching and moving, making them especially vulnerable. A neck lift can restore a slimmer, more youthful-looking neck. It defines your chin and jaw while eliminating the appearance of a double chin or “turkey neck.”
What is a Neck Lift?
Do you apply sunscreen to your face but not your neck? If so, you are one of many. We often forget to care for this vital area. As you age, you may notice sagging skin that gives you the appearance of a “turkey neck.” Accumulated fat can result in a double chin, and separated muscles can cause visible neck bands. A neck lift corrects these concerns to give you a slimmer, more contoured neckline.
How Does Neck Lift Surgery Work?
Dr. Leong performs neck lifts under IV sedation as an outpatient procedure. Incisions are hidden around your ears and sometimes in a crease under your chin. During the procedure, she may use liposuction to remove accumulated pockets of fat. The separated muscles are tightened to eliminate the appearance of bands, and loose skin is lifted and redraped to contour the neck.
How Long Does a Neck Lift Last?
A neck lift can undo many effects of aging, but it cannot stop aging from progressing. You can expect your neck lift results to last ten to fifteen years or even longer. Even after that time, your neck will still look better than it would have without your neck lift.
Can I Combine a Neck Lift With Other Procedures?
Many facelift procedures include a neck lift to tighten the areas a facelift does not reach. Combining procedures means you only have one recovery period, so if you are interested in an eyelid lift, chin implant, or other enhancement, consider having them with your neck surgery.
Non-surgical treatments such as laser skin rejuvenation can boost your neck lift results. They stimulate collagen production to firm and smooth the skin. You should also establish a skincare routine, including sun protection, and remember to treat your neck and your face.
What is Recovery Like After a Neck Lift?
You will have some minor swelling and bruising after your neck lift surgery. These will start to fade within days and disappear within a week or two. Many people return to work within a week. You should wait at least two weeks before resuming your exercise routine.
Am I a Candidate for a Neck Lift?
If you have a significant amount of loose neck skin, you may be a good candidate for neck lift surgery. You may also be a candidate for liposuction to remove excess fat. If you have only minor skin laxity, Dr. Leong may recommend a MyEllevate suture suspension neck lift.
Take the Next Step
To make an appointment with Dr. Karen Leong, call us at (949) 409-8848 or fill out the consultation form below.