Neck Lift and Rhytidectomy
Neck lifts may not be as well-known or as popular as some other procedures for the face, but they can be perfect for those who aren’t ready for a full facelift. We all show signs of aging differently, and for some, the lower part of the face and neck can show age more quickly than the upper face. A neck lift can reveal the neck’s natural, youthful slenderness and allow the face’s beauty to take center stage. Continue reading to find out if a neck lift would be a good match for you and what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.
What Is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is a procedure to eliminate excess fat and skin in the lower face and under the chin that, when combined, can create aging and drooping jowls. Removal of excess fat deposits and the tightening of loose skin work to relieve muscle banding in the neck that forms abnormal contours and an appearance of a very aged neck. A neck lift helps to fight against the natural processes of aging, gravity, stress, and negative environmental factors.
Ideal Candidates
An ideal candidate for a neck lift is someone experiencing signs of aging in their lower face and/or neck such as sagging skin or excess fat. Many neck lift patients feel that a full facelift is not necessary for them because the upper portions of their face are not showing the signs of aging as much as the lower. Ideal patients are non-smoking and fully committed to a healthy lifestyle to aid in a fast, straightforward recovery. It is important for neck lift patients to have reasonable expectations and be aware that the purpose of plastic surgery is not to defeat aging or achieve perfection, but to improve areas of the face or body that you, as the patient, are not happy with.
A Neck Lift Procedure
During a neck lift, general anesthesia is used to assure utmost comfort for the patient. Next, an incision is made at the location agreed upon during your consultation with Dr. Franckle, depending on the amount of lifting needed. For most patients, the primary procedure involves cleaning out excess fat deposits along the neck and redistributing for a smooth, natural look. Often, the platysma muscle is tightened to ensure the results last. If loose skin is an issue, that too is trimmed, and sutures or skin adhesives are used for healing.
Neck Lift Recovery
Bandages are placed around the incision to allow for a gentle recovery. Instructions about post-operative medications, possible side effects, and what to expect in your first days after the procedure will be sent home with you. In all cases, it is important to keep the head elevated to minimize swelling and avoid applying ice as this can staunch blood flow to the healing area.
Neck Lift Results
As swelling and bruising subside in the days and weeks following your procedure, the natural contours that shape your neck and face will return, and your results will become apparent. Your final neck lift results may take several weeks to fully appear. Incision lines will eventually mature (generally within six months) and blend in with the new sharp angles of the face. With a commitment to health, sun protection, and avoiding abrasive contact with the surgical area, the results can be enjoyed for many years to come.
Cost
The cost of a neck lift procedure is $6,000-$9,000, depending on the patient. For an exact quote, visit our office for a consultation.
We offer a number of patient financing options through reputable financial companies to help you plan for your neck lift. Before you apply, we recommend that you first discuss your needs with our patient coordinator, Bianca. She can help you with the application process and discuss any special offers that come up from time to time. You can visit our financing page to get more information on our programs. We also accept personal checks, cashier’s checks, cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. We want to make the process as simple for you as possible, so please reach out to us in advance if you have any questions.
How to Prepare
To help safely ensure youthful and sculpted results, you will be directed to take preparation steps if you are deemed an ideal candidate for a neck lift. Prior to your neck lift surgery, you may be instructed to do the following:
- Have your past medical records sent to Dr. Franckle’s office for review
- Provide a detailed list of current medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking
- Refrain from smoking for a specified time period as instructed by the surgeon
- Make arrangements for a family member or a loved one to drive you home after the neck lift surgery
- Plan to take a minimum of one week’s leave from work following surgery
- Acquire post-surgery care supplies (pain relievers, ice packs, extra pillows, loose-fitting clothing)
The Morning of Your Neck Lift
On the morning of your neck lift procedure, you’ll be advised to follow these suggestions:
- Get plenty of rest the night before
- Avoid eating or drinking 8 hours prior to the neck lift procedure
- Avoid consumption of alcohol 48 hours before surgery
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the procedure
