What is a neck lift?
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that can correct the following issues:
- Vertical bands around your neck
- Creases in your neck
- Neck wrinkles
- Jowls
- Loose skin in your neck
During a neck lift, Dr. Schwarcz tightens both your skin and the underlying muscles to give you a smoother and more youthful-looking neck.
Is a neck lift part of a facelift?
No. Neck lift and facelift are two separate procedures. However, many patients opt for both neck lift and facelift to achieve an overall youthful look. Dr. Schwarcz can do both procedures at the same time, which means you only need to undergo anesthesia once.
How does a neck lift work?
Neck lifts are usually done while you’re asleep under general anesthesia. Dr. Schwarcz makes incisions under your chin or below your ears first. Next, he sews the underlying muscle fibers together more tightly and then trims extra skin and fat.
Dr. Schwarcz optimally repositions the skin and then secures it with small unobtrusive sutures. Finally, Dr. Schwarcz places bandages on the surgical site.
Is liposuction a good alternative to a neck lift?
It depends on what your neck concerns are. If you simply have extra fat in your neck and you still have good skin elasticity, liposuction may work for you.
However, problems like wrinkles, cords around your neck, and sagging require neck lift surgery because it actually removes extra skin and repositions the remaining skin.
What is recovery like after a neck lift?
For the first few days, keep your head elevated to reduce swelling. Take prescribed medicine as directed, and use cold compresses to help with swelling and pain. You may have bruising and swelling for anywhere from a week to 10 days.
Dr. Schwarcz typically removes your stitches at your one-week checkup, and by that time, you’ll usually feel comfortable. Most neck lift patients return to work in two weeks or less. Dr. Schwarcz advises you on when you can resume strenuous exercise. Usually, it’s at least six weeks because you need to heal fully before doing so.
To schedule a neck lift consultation, call Robert M. Schwarcz, MD, or request an appointment online today.
