Neck Lift: Frequently Asked Questions

Considering neck lift surgery? If so, you probably have lots of questions, and you may have some concerns. Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions about platysmaplasty, along with their answers:

1. What is a neck lift?
2. At what age can a neck lift be performed?
3. What does a typical neck lift consultation entail?
4. How is a neck lift performed?
5. What should I expect postoperatively?
6. When will the stitches be removed?
7. When will I be able to see the results?
8. What are the risks of neck lift?
9. Are the results permanent?

 

1. What is a neck lift?

A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is surgery to reduce the look of sagging, loose skin in the neck area and under the jawline. People who complain of having a fleshy neck, "jowls," neck banding or a "turkey wattle" can benefit from this procedure.

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2. At what age can a neck lift be performed?

A neck lift can be performed at almost any age, although people usually seek it out between the ages of 30 and 70.

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3. What does a typical neck lift consultation entail?

You will tell your surgeon what you want to change about your neck, and then he or she will offer a professional opinion about what can realistically be done to address your concerns. The surgeon will explain the various techniques available for a neck lift, as well as anesthesia options, incision placements that may be most appropriate for you, and the risks and costs associated with neck lift.

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4. How is neck lift performed?

Like many cosmetic surgery procedures, a neck lift is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and light sleep sedation or general anesthesia. In a “skin-only” neck lift, the surgeon makes two incisions under or behind the ear, loosens the skin, redrapes it and removes any excess. In a platysmaplasty with a skin lift, an additional incision is made under the chin.

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5. What should I expect postoperatively?

 You will most likely experience swelling and bruising in your lower face and neck that will peak on day three and then begin to dissipate. Your surgeon will advise you to take it easy for a couple of weeks or more as you recuperate. A full overview is available here on neck lift recovery.

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6. When will the stitches be removed and does this hurt?

Your stitches will probably remain in place for seven to 10 days, depending on how you are healing and your surgeon's preference.

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7. When will I be able to see the results?

Although some swelling will be present for several weeks, you should begin to see the results of your neck lift emerge within a week or so.

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8. What are the risks of neck lift?

All surgery has risks and complications, and a neck lift is no exception. Potential risks include an allergic reaction to the anesthesia, infection, hematoma or seroma, lumpiness, numbness, mottling of the skin, cording, asymmetry and general dissatisfaction with the results. A full rundown is available in our article on neck lift risks.

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9. Are the results permanent?

Surgery cannot stop aging — nothing can — so your neck lift results will not last forever. However, they should last for several years before you start to see loose skin in the area again. Be aware that a significant weight gain could cause neck fullness and sagging.

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Neck lift is a popular procedure, and All About Facial Rejuvenation is a comprehensive resource addressing all areas of the surgery, including neck lift cost. In addition, several other facial plastic surgery procedures such as facelift, rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery are covered. Please visit the site's other pages to learn more.

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(Updated on 01/31/2012)
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