Neck Lift Risks

Neck Lift Surgery Risks

Reviewed by Yael Halaas, MD

All surgeries — even cosmetic ones — carry risks. Neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is no exception. It is important to be fully informed about the potential neck lift risks before you undergo this surgery.

Neck lift risks may include:

  • Anesthesia risks or complications
  • Infection
  • Hematoma (collection of blood beneath the skin)
  • Seroma (collection of fluid under the skin)
  • Neck tightness
  • Numbness
  • Asymmetry
  • Skin irregularities such as lumpiness, mottling or bruising
  • Excessive scarring
  • Dissatisfaction with the cosmetic results of your neck lift
  • Need for revision surgery
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This occurs if a blood clot forms in a vein deep inside your body, blocking blood flow and causing swelling and pain. The clot may break free and move through the bloodstream.
  • Heart and lung complications
  • Death

Neck Lift Risks: Protect Yourself

Make sure your surgeon and anesthesiologist know your complete medical history and are aware of all the medications you currently take. Also inquire what, if any, symptoms may be warning signs of more serious complications so you can know what to look out for. For example, a fever may be a sign of infection.

Protect yourself from unnecessary neck lift risks by selecting a qualified facial plastic surgeon and following his or her pre- and postoperative instructions closely. There are many specialists who now perform cosmetic procedures, sometimes with minimal training and virtually no experience. Facial plastic surgeons and board-certified plastic surgeons, however, are the specialists to go to for neck lifts and other neck rejuvenation procedures. When you choose a qualified surgeon and follow their instructions, serious complications during or after a neck lift are unlikely.