Neck Lift

A neck lift or platysmaplasty is a surgery designed to reduce the loose look of sagging skin in the neck area and under the jaw line. Many times patients choose to have a neck lift with their face lift procedure. The surgery of the neck is reached though a small incision around the ears and through the tiny incision under the chin. After surgery, your neck will be backed up to a position of more youthful appearance.

Surgical Procedure

The skin lifting can be done with two incisions under or behind the ear; the platysmaplasty with the additional skin lift can be accomplished with a small incision under the chin and the behind or under the ear. With the skin procedure sections, skin are trimmed and lifted into place, sutured and fixed with tissue glue.The platysmaplasty, a section fat muscle is removed and the ends are sutured to bring them together at the mid-anterior (front) section of the neck. The skin can be brought together under or behind the ear to further firm up appearance of the neck. This cosmetic surgery can be done in a conjunction with brow (forehead) lift, blepharoplasty and also face lift.

However there may be differences in surgical technique depending upon the preference of your surgeon so please discuss this at your consultation.

Duration of operation

2-3 hours. If you will be having other procedures performed with your neck lift, this time will be increased accordingly. 

Anesthetic

General anesthesia

Pre Operative Care

Inform us about any allergies, any serious medical condition (s), and all medications you are taking.

Avoid smoking at least two weeks before the surgery to be ensured in a proper healing.

Avoid fasting; make sure that you eat properly because this will help your body heal.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of surgery. A button-down blouse or shirt is preferred. Should avoid wearing t-shirt to easily pull over of your neck and head.

Plan to take at least one week off from work or as instructed by your doctors.

Your home recovery area should include:

• Ice packs.
• Gauze and towels
• Thermometer
• Supply of comfortable, loose clothing.
• Petroleum jelly and antibacterial ointment for incision sites.
• Telephone within reaching distance of where you'll be lying or sitting.

Recovery

Take at least 1 week off from work to recover.

Take at least 3 weeks in participating in sports or physically active activity.

Take your temperature regularly, an elevated temperature could mean an infection.

Strictly follow your doctors' instruction.

Risk and Complication

You will have swelling and bruising that can last for several days. You may have feel tightness or tingling, and different sensations including burning or pulling. You also will experience numbness. These are all very normal in the first few weeks following surgery and should not be for concern. Immediately contact your doctor, if you have unusual discharge from the incision site or if your temperature elevate.

Post Operative Care

Keep your head and neck still. Do not turn your head from side to side.

Take medicines on time.

Avoid taking birth control pill for women.