The neck is often overlooked by men and women who want a more youthful look, though the area is one of the first and most prominent features to show signs of aging. This can be apparent due to increasing skin laxity and fat accumulation. A variety of nonsurgical treatments are available, each with its own set of advantages, but for a long-lasting solution with immediate results, nothing duplicates the power of a neck lift for my Boston patients.
How Is a Neck Lift Done?
A neck lift involves tightening both muscles and skin as necessary and can also include fat removal via liposuction. The ultimate goal is a sleek, natural-looking neck that harmonizes with the face.
During the procedure, you’ll likely be given a local anesthetic and light sedation—although a general anesthetic may be used in certain circumstances. An incision is usually made under the chin and behind the ears so that the underlying tissue can be tightened and/or excess skin removed. You can learn more about the neck lift procedure itself from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
What’s the Difference Between a Facelift and a Neck Lift?
A facelift focuses on the lower portion of the face by pulling up sagging jowls and re-contouring the area by tightening the skin. The effects are best enhanced by a neck lift, so there is no line demarcating where younger-looking skin stops and looser, older-looking skin begins. Learn more about the differences in our related blog post.
You can see one of my patient’s excellent results with a facelift and neck lift combination procedure in the photos below.
For more before and after photos of my neck lift patients’ results, take a look at my photo gallery.
Is a Neck Lift Without Surgery Possible?
A few nonsurgical treatments can diminish the fatty deposits under the chin, including CoolSculpting® and KYBELLA®. Although these are excellent choices for small amounts of fat or a double chin, they cannot address the loose skin and neck lines common with an aging neck.
Some nonsurgical skin tightening devices can also be used on the neck, but they do not provide the exceptional results we can create with a neck lift. Overall, if you’re looking for comprehensive neck tightening that looks natural and lasts for years, a neck lift is usually best.
Is Swelling Under the Chin After a Neck Lift Common?
Swelling and bruising are typical after a neck lift and can take about 1 to 2 weeks to resolve, after which the new contours will be visible. Nonsurgical treatments typically do not require significant recuperation, but the results appear more gradually.
Can Other Procedures Complement a Neck Lift?
I perform neck lifts as a standalone procedure, but they are frequently combined with a facelift to rejuvenate the entire face and neck area at the same time.
A consultation is the best way for you to discover whether a neck lift, a facelift, neck liposuction, or a combination of the three will provide your desired results. It is also an opportunity to get your questions answered and establish a relationship with the person who will be working to ensure that the end result is as natural-looking as it is rejuvenating.
Want to learn more about what a neck lift can do from a plastic surgeon in Boston? Call (781) 237-7700 or request a consultation using our online contact form.