Neck Lift

What is Neck Lift ?

A Neck Lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical cosmetic procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck, creating a more defined and youthful-looking neck. It's often done as part of a face-lift. Some people feel they are not ready for a full facelift because the upper face is still pleasing. However, many patients will note excess wrinkling of the neck skin, a double chin or "turkey wattle" and jowl lines. When the neck area doesn't match the upper facial appearance, a neck lift may be a good solution.

What can a Neck Lift surgery do ?

The loss of youthful contours in the face and neck can be due to a variety of factors, including heredity, gravity, environmental conditions and stress. A neck lift is done to reduce : • Excess fatty deposits under the chin • Loose neck skin • Muscle banding in the neck, which created abnormal contours Results can be long lasting, but neck lift surgery can't stop the aging process.

Neck Lift Process

Like all the surgeries, the procedure begins with the Anesthesia, your surgeon will recommend the best choice for you wether is an intravenous sedation or general anesthesia depending on your case. Depending on the degree of change you'd like to see, your neck lift choices include a traditional or a limited Incision neck lift.

The surgeon ,with specialized equipment, Suctions fat from the jaw line and beneath the chin. If your skin is resilient and the only reason for your dissatisfaction with your neck's appearance is fullness due to fat, liposuction can give you a more defined neck.

Then we proceed to Closing the incisions, with sutures and perhaps skin glue. Sutures may be dissolving, or may need to be removed after a few days. Once healed, the incision lines from a neck lift are usually well concealed within the hairline and in the natural contours of the ear.

Can everyone have a Neck Lift ?

In general, good candidates for a neck lift include: • Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that impair healing • Nonsmokers • Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations

Instructions for better Neck Lift

The following instructions are general information to be followed before and after a Neck Lift procedure:

Pre-Operation: • Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications), Vitamin E, herbal supplements or any medications containing these compounds for 2 weeks before surgery. Acetaminophen (Tylenol or generic equivalent) and a multivitamin are fine. • Avoid hair coloring, perms, or other hair treatments for 2 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery • Refrain from smoking 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery. Nicotine and tobacco smoke delay healing and can result in scarring. This is the perfect time to give up the habit. • Avoid sun damage 2 weeks before surgery. We recommend wearing a SPF 30 or higher. • Do not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight the night before your surgery. • Arrange for someone to take you home from the hospital. You will not be allowed to drive or leave alone. Arrange for someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery. Post-Operation: • Iced gauze pads (gauze pads dipped in ice water and wrung out) should be applied for the first 48 hours to minimize swelling and discoloration. • Severe pain or swelling, especially if greater on one side, is uncommon—if you experience this notify us. • You may wash your face but keep the dressing dry. • Keep your head elevated to minimize swelling. A recliner works well or adding an extra pillow on your bed is adequate. • Leave bandages on until we remove them. A lighter dressing will replace the original one. You will be instructed to remove the dressing 2 days later. You may shower and wash your hair once the dressing is removed. • Our office will supply you with a supportive elastic facial sling which you will need to wear day and night for the first 7 days after the dressing is removed. You will need to wear it at night for the following 1-2 weeks. • Don’t be concerned if the eyes, cheeks, and neck show some swelling or bruise discoloration after removal of the dressing – this usually resolves within 2 weeks. In certain patients, it may require six months for all swelling to completely subside. • Apply a thin layer of Vaseline ointment to all incisions 3 times a day once dressings have been removed and continue until 2 days after the sutures are removed. • Baby Shampoo or a clarifying shampoo works best to remove the ointment from your hair and scalp. • Avoid foods requiring prolonged chewing and avoid excessive facial movements for 1 week. • Brush teeth gently with a soft toothbrush only. Avoid manipulation of upper lip and cheeks. You may have difficulty opening your mouth wide or turning your head. As healing takes place and swelling subsides this will improve. In the meantime, avoid any stretching facial movements. • Avoid extreme physical activity including athletic activities and intercourse. You may resume light walking 3 days after surgery. Aerobic exercise, weight training, heavy lifting, and straining may be gradually resumed 3 weeks after surgery. • Absolutely avoid sun exposure, sun lamps, or tanning beds for 6 weeks after surgery. Heat may cause your face to swell. We recommend wearing a SPF 30 or higher. • Take only medications prescribed by your doctor. You will receive prescriptions for pain medication and an antibiotic. The pain medication along with reduction in physical activity may cause constipation. • Makeup may be used 5-7 days after surgery (except on the incisions). Make-up may be applied on the incisions 2 days after the sutures are removed.

Average Length of Stay 5 Days Length of Stay in Hospital 1 Day Operation Duration 3 Hours Anesthesia General Anesthesia Recovery Duration 5-7 Days