A neck lift is an effective way to reduce the appearance of excess skin around the lower face or neck regions that may result in vertical banding, fatty jowls or a “turkey neck.”
This facial rejuvenation procedure may be performed alone, or in conjunction with other anti-aging procedures such as a facelift or neck liposuction to achieve optimal cosmetic results.
When to Consider a Neck Lift
The best candidates for a neck lift are healthy individuals who are dissatisfied with the appearance of excess skin in their lower face and neck. A neck lift is capable of:
- Tightening loose skin
- Contouring the neck muscle
- Eliminating double chins, jowls or turkey neck
- Creating a more youthful appearance
Smoking and certain medications or supplements may interfere with the natural healing process. Your surgeon will be able to determine if you are an ideal candidate for a neck lift based on factors such as your medical history and cosmetic expectations.
FAQ
What are the steps of the neck lift procedure?
General anesthesia will be administered prior to your procedure. Your face and neck regions may be marked to determine proper incision placement. Incisions are typically made under or behind the ears and may extend toward the hairline. If your neck lift involves adjustment to the platysma muscle, incisions will also be made underneath the chin.
Following incision, your surgeon will remove or reposition underlying tissue and muscle. Excess fat may be removed via liposuction. The skin will then be stretched firmly into its new position and incisions will be closed using sutures or tissue glue to minimize scarring.
How long is recovery following this procedure?
Once your neck lift is complete, a compression bandage will be applied to the treatment area to minimize swelling and bruising. Results may be obscured initially due to significant swelling. Final results will become apparent as the swelling fades over the next few weeks.
Stitches may be removed after about a week, at which time it may be possible to begin using makeup. The skin should be protected from accidental trauma and sun exposure for the next few months. Incision lines will continue to fade for up to six months.
Is there scarring from a neck lift?
Neck lift surgery is designed to conceal evidence of incision lines within the natural contours of the face and neck. In addition, fine sutures and tissue glue may be used to ensure the faintest possible scarring.
How will I feel after the procedure?
After neck lift surgery, you may experience an uncomfortable feeling of tightness in the neck region. Prescription medication may be given for the first few days to help control this pain effectively. Any discomfort should subside as the swelling goes down.
Are there any possible complications?
Neck lift surgery has a very low occurrence of side effects, which may include pain, irregular scarring or asymmetry. As with all surgical procedures, there is also the slight risk of bleeding, infection or poor wound healing. Revisionary surgery may be required to address complications. All of these risks will be discussed in depth during your consultation.
Learn More About Neck Lifts in Tampa
For more information about neck lifts, or to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Mosiello, contact our office at 813-631-1500. Our Tampa Palms cosmetic surgery office is conveniently located in New Tampa near Wesley Chapel. Dr. Gerard Mosiello is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Tampa Palms, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and the entire Tampa Bay area. He has expertise in a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast augmentation and enhancement, breast lift surgery, breast reconstruction, facial rejuvenation, and body contouring.
