The face and neck are intimately connected. As we age the cheeks seem to melt into the neck and skin changes which can be camouflaged on the face, are exposed and visible for all to see on the neck. When considering facial rejuvenation, it is important not to neglect your neck. Wrinkles and a turkey waddle can develop in this area and will likely detract from the more youthful appearance of your face. A neck lift is an effective means of rejuvenating the neck area in both men and women. In most cases, the procedure is performed in conjunction with a facelift. Some patients, however, will benefit from a neck lift alone.
If you have noticed any of the following problems, you may be a good candidate for a neck lift:
When you put your fingers below your earlobes and pull up or back, do you think you look a lot better? If so, a neck lift may be just what you need. Necklift is often performed in conjunction with facelift surgery since the face and neck are in continuity. Tightening one without the other often results in an unfinished look. Necklift may also be recommending if you are considering neck liposuction or chin augmentation. Before recommending a neck lift, Dr. Weston will evaluate your health and thoroughly review your medical history. As with many other surgical procedure, smokers will be required to quit smoking at least 6 weeks prior to surgery, and detailed pre-operative instructions must be followed to ensure the best outcome.
Necklift surgery is performed under a light general anesthetic, allowing patients to be comfortable throughout the procedure and to wake up easily. Several incisions may be made including a small incision under your chin and incisions wrapping around your earlobes and behind your ears. Excess skin and fat will be removed, the neck muscles will be lifted and tightened, and the incisions will be closed with sutures Drains will be placed at the time of surgery and will be removed on the first post-operative day. This surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure and patients will be able to return home or to a local hotel in the care of a responsible adult. Our staff has experience helping out of town patients obtain post-operative care and accommodations.
You will need a ride home after neck lift surgery and someone who will stay with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure. We will recommend that you keep your head elevated for the first few days using a wedge pillow or resting comfortable in a lounge chair/recliner. You will be seen in the office on the first post-op day at which time your surgical dressing will be removed, all incisions will be inspected and your drainage tubes will be removed. A new head dressing will be fashioned and will remain in place for 3 or 4 more days. On post-op day 5 you will return to the office for dressing removal and removal of some of your sutures. You will be able to shower and wash your hair after this visit. Your neck is likely to feel tight for a few weeks although pain is usually minimal. You will notice bruising settling along the base of your neck which will usually subside within two weeks. By the end of the second week of recovery, you should be ready to resume most daily activities and make public appearances. Vigorous activity, however, should be avoided for four to six weeks. Sutures will be removed within 5 to 10 days after surgery. The majority of patients return to work within two weeks.
A neck lift is an effective anti-aging procedure, whether it is performed alone or in conjunction with other surgical options. To find out if a neck lift is right for you, contact Dr. Weston today at (650) 457-6291.