Neck Lift Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

Neck Lift Surgery FAQs

Perhaps nothing makes a woman or man look older than a sagging neck. Botox and fillers can do wonders for the eyes and lips – and stave off the appearance of aging. But an old-looking neck is much harder to treat. This is because the neck covers a large area and is comprised of skin, fat, and muscles. And while topical treatments can improve the appearance of the skin, they simply cannot tighten muscles.

For this reason, more and more women (and men!) are turning to the surgical neck lift to takes years off their appearance. And thanks to advancements in plastic surgery, neck lift surgery techniques are now less invasive and come with minimal scars and far less downtime.

In this article, renowned Birmingham, MI plastic surgeon Dr. Ali answers patients frequently asked questions about neck lift surgery.

Is neck lift surgery common?

Yes, neck lift surgery is a commonly performed cosmetic procedure, and the number performed has likely increased over the years due to advances in surgical techniques and an increasing demand for cosmetic procedures.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, facelift procedures, which often include the neck, have been consistently among the top 5 most popular cosmetic surgeries in the US in for several years.

What causes the neck to sag and look old?

Neck skin sagging with aging is caused by a combination of factors including loss of skin elasticity, decreased collagen production, and decreased skin thickness. Additionally, factors such as sun exposure, gravity, and genetics can contribute to skin sagging. The neck muscles also lose tightness and tone with age, which can cause them to sag.

As people age, the skin on the neck can become thinner and lose elasticity, which can make the muscles in the neck more visible. Additionally, the natural loss of fat in the face and neck that occurs with aging can also contribute to the appearance of neck muscles. Other factors that can make neck muscles more visible include weight loss, poor posture, and even certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorders.

Hormone decline can also contribute to neck skin sagging. The decline in estrogen levels that occurs during menopause can lead to a decrease in collagen production and skin elasticity, which can cause the skin to become thinner and more susceptible to sagging. Additionally, hormonal changes can affect the production of hyaluronic acid, which is a substance that helps keep skin hydrated and plump.

What is neck lift surgery?

A neck lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure that improves the appearance of the neck by removing excess skin, tightening underlying muscles, and redistributing fat. This surgery can be performed alone or in conjunction with a facelift and is often used to treat signs of aging such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and jowls.

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves incisions made behind the ears and under the chin. The recovery period after a neck lift can vary, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks.

Are there scars after neck lift surgery?

Yes, as with any incision, there will be scars after a neck lift surgery. The type and location of scars will depend on the specific techniques used during the procedure, but incisions are typically made behind the ears and under the chin.

A skilled plastic surgeon can conceal the incisions in the natural contours of the face and neck, but they will still be visible. Typically, the scars will fade dramatically over time, but they will never completely disappear. That is why it is important to choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali in Birmingham, MI – so that scarring is minimized and well concealed.

What are the different neck lift surgery techniques?

There are several different techniques that can be used for neck lift surgery. While every neck lift surgery is different, depending upon the patient’s unique needs, they can be broken down into 3 general categories:

Traditional neck lift: This technique involves incisions made behind the ears and under the chin, which allows the surgeon to remove excess skin, tighten underlying muscles, and redistribute fat.

Mini neck lift: This technique is similar to a traditional neck lift but involves smaller incisions and a less extensive procedure. It may be suitable for patients with minimal signs of aging.

Endoscopic neck lift: This technique uses an endoscope (a small camera) and small incisions to tighten the muscles and remove excess fat without removing skin.

Liposuction, which involves removing excess fat using a thin tube called a cannula, may be used alone or in conjunction with other neck lift surgery techniques.

The best technique for you will depend on your specific needs and goals, and Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic surgery in Birmingham, MI will help you choose the right option based on your anatomy, skin quality, and the extent of your concerns.

How long is recovery after neck lift surgery?

The recovery period after neck lift surgery can vary, but most patients can expect to take 7 to 10 days off from work. During this time, you will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication.

Stitches will typically be removed within 7 to 10 days, and most patients can return to normal activities within 2 to 3 weeks.

However, it is important to remember that every patient heals differently. Please follow your surgeon’s specific instructions for postoperative care, which may include wearing a compression garment, avoiding certain activities, and attending follow-up appointments.

Why is neck lift surgery called platysmaplasty?

Neck lift surgery is sometimes referred to as platysmaplasty, because one aspect of the procedure involves tightening the platysma muscle. The platysma is a muscle that runs from the collarbone to the jawline and is responsible for moving the neck and jaw.

As we age, the platysma muscle can become loose and cause sagging or wrinkles in the neck. During a neck lift, the surgeon may tighten and reposition the platysma muscle to improve the appearance of the neck. By doing so, the procedure can help address issues such as “turkey neck” or “jowls.”

Platysmaplasty is just one aspect of neck lift surgery and may not be included in all procedures. The type of neck lift procedure will depend on the specific concerns and goals of each patient.

Who is a good candidate for neck lift surgery?

A good candidate for neck lift surgery is typically someone who is in good physical health and is bothered by signs of aging in the neck such as sagging skin, wrinkles, fat deposits, or protruding muscles.

Ideal candidates should also be non-smokers, as smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Patients who have significant medical problems or are taking medications that can affect the healing process may not be suitable candidates for neck lift surgery.

Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI is happy to offer you an individual evaluation, to determine if a neck lift is appropriate, and it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your plastic surgeon about your concerns and goals.

Neck Lift Surgery | Birmingham, MI

AMAE Plastic Surgery is the Birmingham, MI area’s premier facilities for state-of-the-art neck lift surgery. Schedule a consultation today discuss your face and neck lift options with renowned board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali, to see if this procedure is right for you. He has taken decades off the appearance of hundreds of men and women with his skilled and experienced approach to modern neck lift techniques. CAll today and take the first step to a younger looking you!

Neck Lift Surgery | Birmingham, MI: 248.335.7200