Neck Lift
Neck lift is a procedure that helps to enhance the appearance of your neck. It is also termed as a lower rhytidectomy or submental lipectomy. It is often combined with a face-lift. However, if you are comfortable with the appearance of your face, it can be performed independently. Sometimes it can also be combined with other procedures such as liposuction, needed to remove any excess fat.
Purpose
Preparation
For a few days prior to your procedure, your doctor can ask you to stop taking some medications such as aspirin or any blood thinners. Your doctor is also most likely to recommend you to stop smoking before and after the procedure as smoking can cause the skin to wrinkle and slows down healing.
It is best if you are able to arrange for a ride home after the procedure and someone to stay with you for the first night after the procedure.
Your doctor will also consult with you to evaluate your health and to discuss your surgical goals and expectations. Then your doctor will be deciding on the surgical method that will work best for you. He/she might also suggest any additional procedures, such as a brow lift, eyelid surgery or skin resurfacing, as any of these might help in providing you your desired results.
Your face will also need to be examined and measured. You might also need photographs taken so that you will be able to compare your appearance before and after the surgery.
Eat a healthy diet, as it will help your body to heal. If you work in an office, you should take a leave for a minimum of one week.
Set up an area as well in your home for recovery. Make sure the area includes ice packs, a thermometer, gauze, towels, a supply of comfortable loose clothing which don’t require to be pulled over the head and neck, petroleum jelly and antibacterial ointment, pillows that will allow you to keep your head in a comfortable position.
Also make sure that you wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure.
Procedure
The procedure is done with either local or general anesthesia. Generally, liposuction is the most common method used for a neck lift. First, the surgeon makes a tiny incision behind each of the ears and under the chin. After this, specialized equipment will suction the fat from the jawline and beneath your chin. If the skin is resilient and removing the fat is the only reason for your dissatisfaction, then through liposuction, you should be able to get a more defined neck.
Liposuction will however not be able to correct any kind of structural problems that contribute to the appearance of your neck. It is important to discuss with your doctor which method works best for you.
After the Procedure
It is likely that you may experience swelling and bruising after your procedure. You might also need to wear a special garment for compressing your neck and helping reduce swelling. You will also need to keep your head in an elevated position above your heart and keep it straight. Also, remember not to twist or bend your neck.
It can take weeks to months for the swelling and bruising to disappear fully. It should take around six months for your incision lines to completely fade. In the meantime, you need to take protective measures for your skin from the sun. Try to avoid clothing that needs to be pulled over the head.
Risks
You’ll experience a few side effects in the first few weeks following the procedure. It is all normal and therefore, it should not be a reason for any concern.
The swelling and bruising may last for multiple weeks. You might also experience tightness or tingling as well as other sensations such as pulling or burning. Sometimes, you will be experiencing numbness as well.
As with other surgeries, infection is also a possibility. If you get a fever or have any unusual discharge from the surgery site, you should contact your doctor.