Signs of aging can be seen all over the body as you grow older. The neck is one area where these signs are the most evident. It isn’t uncommon to notice loose and wrinkled skin on your neck when you reach a certain age. This may make you feel self-conscious and unhappy. With a necklift procedure, you can effectively treat these visible signs of aging on your neck and jawline.

Some of the common reasons why people decide on a necklift procedure include the following:

  • It helps in the removal of excess fat and tightening of the skin on the lower part of your face.
  • It works to remove the excess fat deposits under your chin.
  • It is effective in treating sagging skin and weakened/loose muscles in your neck.
  • It helps treat a condition called “turkey wattle,” which may make you appear older than you really are.

Your neck can lose its youthful appearance due to factors such as gravity, heredity, stress, age, and environmental conditions.

Those who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations and a positive attitude can be considered as suitable candidates for a necklift procedure.

The Procedure

In traditional necklift surgery, the plastic surgeon will make an incision behind each ear and below the chin. He may sculpt away the fat in your neck and jowls. This is followed by the repositioning of the underlying tissue. At this stage, tightening of the platysma muscle may take place. The surgeon will work to trim away the excess skin and tighten the remaining skin. The surgeon will then make use of either skin adhesives or sutures to close up the incisions.

It is possible to perform liposuction instead of a full necklift to resculpt the neck region in case only fat needs to be removed and the skin quality of the patient is good. However, when patients show more significant aging signs, like jowling, turkey wattle, sagging skin, excess fat, or prominent platysma muscle drooping, the doctor may recommend a full necklift procedure in order to address all these problem areas.

The Recovery Process

Patients are generally advised to take a few days off of work after the necklift surgery. The downtime can vary depending on each individual case, and it is best to consult your doctor to learn exactly how long your recovery may take.

Plan on setting up a recovery area in your house before the procedure. This area should ideally include the following things:

  • Towels and gauze
  • Ice packs
  • Antibacterial ointment and petroleum jelly
  • A thermometer
  • Sufficient amounts of loose and comfortable clothing, especially button-down tops, which don’t require pulling or tugging around the neck area
  • Pillows for comfortably resting your head and neck
  • A telephone that is within easy reach

Arrange an Informative Necklift Consultation

A necklift is an effective way to contour your neck and help you look more youthful. Dr. John D. Rachel, Quadruple Board-certified facial plastic surgeon, will be happy to explain in further detail, so contact our office today and schedule your consultation.