Peninsula Plastic Surgery

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Neck Lift Surgery: Everything You Should Expect

Enhancing your physical aesthetics is one way to show love to yourself and boost your confidence, especially when you’re frustrated about your features. There are many ways to enhance your physical appearance, and one of them is neck lift surgery.

A neck lift surgery known as a lower rhytidectomy is becoming increasingly popular with patients who aren’t prepared to commit to a full facelift from their local plastic surgeon. If you still need clarification, don’t worry; this guide will help you explain everything you need to expect from having a neck lift surgery.

What Is Neck Lift Surgery?

Lower rhytidectomy is a procedure that combats the signs of neck aging, such as dark spots, excess fat, turkey wattle, and muscle banding. The process starts with lifting the underlying neck muscles and eliminating excess fat and skin. Although this is mostly a standalone procedure, this can be performed together with other cosmetic surgeries like cheek lift surgery and liposuction.

How Does Neck Lift Surgery Work?

The procedure for lower rhytidectomy can be done using several techniques, depending on the patient’s concerns. Once the plastic surgeon has interviewed the patient and conducted a medical assessment, they will determine the best action to maximize results.

Of course, they will administer general anesthesia before any surgery to make the patient comfortable. Afterward, they will make incisions in places that need to be changed or enhanced. Remember, the specific type of incision done will depend on factors such as the patient’s anatomy, the extent of the desired improvement, and the plastic surgeon’s preferences and expertise. It’s important to discuss the options and potential outcomes with an experienced plastic surgeon.

There are two common methods of neck lift surgery: traditional incision and limited incision.

Traditional Neck Lift Incision

The traditional method for lower rhytidectomy entails making longer incisions behind the ears and under the chin, which allows the plastic surgeon to access a larger area of the neck and jawline. This incision accommodates the removal of excess skin and fat. The muscle and fascia along the neck are then cut and separated, and the skin is lifted and repositioned. This technique may be recommended for patients with more significant sagging skin and muscle laxity. 

Limited Neck Lift Incision

The limited incision neck lift is a newer technique gaining popularity because it is less invasive and limits the scarring, which is especially beneficial if you have a lot of hair.  It involves making smaller incisions around the ears and possibly under the chin. This technique is generally used for patients with less advanced signs of aging and may be associated with a shorter recovery time and less scarring.

Aftercare Practices for Your Neck Lift Surgery

Of course, you must practice proper aftercare for your neck lift surgery. This way, you can ensure that your results are long-lasting and that you can enjoy your rejuvenated neck for many years.

First and foremost, you must follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care. These may include taking prescribed medications, applying cold compresses to reduce swelling, and avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period.

You should also use the scar care products recommended and follow the instructions carefully to protect your skin from the sun, as this can lead to premature aging. Finally, you should visit your plastic surgeon for follow-up care.

Final Thoughts

Neck lift surgery can be an effective option for people who want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin on the neck, which sometimes ages faster than the rest of the facial area. Hence, prospective patients must understand the procedure, the recovery process, any potential downsides to make an informed decision. Patients can enjoy a younger, more attractive neck and chin line with proper care and attention.

Peninsula Plastic Surgery provides plastic surgery in Torrance for your neck lift surgery needs. We ensure that our patients are well-informed and comfortable during the entire process. Schedule a free cosmetic consultation with us today!