What Is a Neck Lift?
Neck lift surgery is intended to address visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck. This procedure specifically targets loose skin, muscle banding, and fatty deposits to produce a smoother, more youthful neck appearance. Neck lift surgery is often combined with facelift surgery to provide a more complete rejuvenation. Other procedures that may be recommended in conjunction with a neck lift include brow lift surgery and eyelid surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Neck Lift Surgery?
Our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Brian Braithwaite and Dr. Lorri Cobbins, tailor neck lift surgery to the specific needs of each individual to ensure optimal improvement. In general, neck lift surgery can provide the following advantages for men and women:
- Removes excess skin and fat deposits in the lower face that lead to jowls
- Tightens muscle banding that develop in the neck
- Smooths wrinkles and creases in the neck
- Rejuvenates the jawline and neck for lasting results
Am I a Candidate for Neck Lift Surgery?
To be a good candidate for neck lift surgery, you should be in generally good health, not be a smoker, and have realistic expectations about your outcome. When you schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, they can help you determine your candidacy for the neck lift procedure, or if another solution is more appropriate for your needs. Fat deposits in the jawline and neck are typically addressed via liposuction. Some patients may be eligible for the non-surgical treatment KYBELLA®, which is an injectable that addresses excess fat tissue that causes a “double chin.” Those who are unhappy with sagging or excess skin, however, will need surgery to effectively address their aesthetic concerns.
What Does the Neck Lift Procedure Involve?
Neck lift surgery is typically performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Incisions are often placed in the hairline extending around the bottom of the ear, as well as underneath the chin. Our surgeons take great care to minimize scarring by making small incisions in these inconspicuous areas. During the surgery, the platysma muscle is tightened, excess fat is repositioned, and excess skin is removed and/or tightened. Liposuction may be recommended in conjunction with neck lift surgery if excess fat needs to be removed to achieve the desired outcome.
What Can I Expect After Neck Lift Surgery?
During the recovery after neck lift surgery, patients will wear a compression bandage underneath their chin. A drain may also be placed to help remove excess fluid buildup underneath the skin. Bruising and swelling are normal and should gradually resolve over the first week. To help facilitate healing for the first couple days, it can help to keep the head and neck elevated. Cold compresses can also be used to help control swelling.
Patients often feel comfortable enough to resume their normal activities after the first week of surgery, but strenuous activities should be avoided for about four to six weeks. You will need to come in for follow-up appointments with your surgeon, so they can monitor your healing progress. Should you have any questions or concerns throughout your neck lift recovery, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
How Much Does a Neck Lift Cost?
The average cost of neck lift surgery is approximately $5,242, which includes the surgeon’s fee. This will vary for different patients based on their unique needs and the extent of their surgery. Other factors that can influence the total cost of a neck lift include the plastic surgeon’s expertise, geographic location of the practice, and related fees, such as surgical facility, anesthesia, and medications. Our team will provide you with a detailed cost estimate to help you plan for your surgery. If you would like to divide your total cost into more manageable, monthly payments, we accept different plastic surgery financing options.
If you would like more information about neck lift surgery, please contact the Aesthetic Institute of Chicago to schedule your consultation.