Neck Lift

For many people, the first area of the body to show age is the neck. People who have lost a lot of weight may also experience loose hanging skin in their neck because their skin has lost its natural elasticity. A neck lift can allow you to bring your neck back into its original shape. Face & Neck Surgery are both performed using a number of different techniques and procedures. For those interested in getting a neck lift, you should understand what neck lift procedures are out there, including: liposuction, cervicoplasty, and platysmaplasty.

Neck Lift Procedure

Neck lifts are performed by plastic surgeons that are board certified, and can be performed in out patient surgery centers, hospitals or regular doctor's offices. Your time in surgery can range from a single hour to several hours depending on the depth of your treatment. The procedure may be performed either under local anesthesia or general anesthesia and it does not usually involve an overnight stay.

Liposuction

If your neck lift is one that requires liposuction in order to remove excess fat, then the liposuction is usually the procedure that is performed first. An incision is made below the chin and excess fat deposits are removed. A small hollow tube with an opening near its blunt end is inserted and used to break up and remove the fat. Then a bandage is applied to reduce the discomfort and swelling.

Cervicoplasty

The Cervicoplasty procedure is one that is performed to remove excess skin from the neck area. An incision is made beneath your chin and behind your ears, or possibly just in one or the other location. The surgeon then cuts back and lifts the skin, securing it with permanent sutures or permanent adhesive glue. Bandages and tape are applied to the locations of the incisions following the Cervicoplasty to reduce potential discomfort and swelling. An elastic bandage may also be applied to your head and neck.

Platysmaplasty

The Platysmaplasty procedure is used to reduce the banded appearance in the neck. The Platysmaplasty involves making incisions under the chin and behind the ears, and then inserting a tiny instrument to remove the neck muscles or to better realign them, tightening the middle of your neck. The doctor will use permanent sutures to clasp the muscles in the best position, applying a bandage and tape to the affected areas after the Platysmaplasty to reduce swelling and possible discomfort. You may also receive elastic bandages around your head and neck for much of the healing process.

For more information on these procedures, contact a plastic surgeon near you for a free consultation.