Overview
A deep neck lift is a cutting-edge surgical procedure which entails the remodeling of the tissues beneath the neck's muscular layer. This makes it easier for the surgeon to realign, release, and trim any fat that may be present beneath the muscle. A deep neck lift gives the neck more shape and restores the natural definition of the neck without giving it an unnatural, stretched appearance. As you age, the skin loses its elasticity as collagen levels reduce. This loss of elasticity combined with gravity can cause your skin to sag. These alterations can be more advanced in older people, some of whom may even have a "turkey neck." Some patients may also experience loosening of the neck region at an earlier age.
Sagging or wrinkled skin in the neck area of younger patients may also be hereditary or genetic. This results in younger patients having fullness under the chin which may sometimes extend to the entire neck despite having firm, smooth skin giving them the appearance of a “double chin” and negatively affecting their jawline definition. These patients benefit substantially from a deep neck lift, which is usually performed without a facelift in younger patients as they still have a firm and youthful face. The end result of a deep neck lift procedure is the removal of the double chin and an enhanced neck and jawline definition.
The telltale signs of age, such as dropping neck tissues and wrinkled skin are frequently seen in older people. As they age, they may also have areas of neck fat accumulation. All of these effects are addressed with a deep neck lift, giving the neck a younger, more defined appearance. Due to the fact that the faces of older patients have also been impacted by age, a deep neck lift is typically performed together with a facelift for improved results.
You should know that there are other facial rejuvenation procedures that can be performed in place of or together with a deep neck lift to improve the definition of your neck and jawline. Before deciding to get a deep neck lift, you should consult a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Karan Chopra to get the best advice on facial rejuvenation procedures that will benefit you the most in meeting your aesthetic expectations.
Benefits
There are numerous benefits to undergoing a deep neck lift. A deep neck lift procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Karan Chopra can rejuvenate the neck using techniques that are tailor-made to each patient’s specific anatomy and aesthetic goals. A deep neck lift has additional benefits outside of improving facial contour, some of which include:
- A deep neck lift helps to reduce excess skin;
- A deep neck lift can help tighten the underlying muscles of the neck;
- This procedure also helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines;
- The appearance of platysmal bands on the surface of the neck can be reduced with a deep neck lift;
- A deep neck lift helps to contour the jawline and chin;
- A deep neck lift gives a younger appearance making you appear fresher.
"Am I the right candidate?"
The best patients for a deep neck lift are individuals who have maintained a relatively healthy weight and are in good health. You will be considered for a deep neck lift if:- You are healthy and without medical problems that hinder healing;
- You do not smoke;
- You have realistic expectations and a positive outlook.
Procedure
A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is an operation that improves the neck and jawline by addressing the visible indications of aging in these areas. A deep neck lift is an intricate plastic surgery procedure that aims to sharply improve the definition of the neck. The results from this procedure last longer than those of other conventional neck lift methods.
There is a layer of fat beneath the skin of the neck. The platysma muscle is a superficial muscle that covers the neck like a sheet. Beneath this muscle are glands, muscles, fat, and other structures in the neck. Excess usually accumulates in this area over time leading to poor neck definition. To naturally improve the definition of your neck, your plastic surgeon will eliminate any excess fat in this layer.
A deep neck lift procedure is helpful for individuals with loose neck skin, excess fatty deposits under the chin, muscle banding in the neck, and excess fat and skin relaxation in the lower face that creates jowls. A neck lift may also be a great solution for individuals whose neck area does not match their upper facial appearance.
There are also various other facial rejuvenation procedures that can be done together with a deep neck lift. A brow lift can also be done in conjunction with a neck lift to treat a sagging or severely wrinkled brow. Other examples of procedures that can be performed together with a facelift include eyelid surgery and fat transfer.
It is important to note that a deep neck lift is a restorative procedure and does not alter your basic appearance or reverse the effects of aging. While there are nonsurgical facial rejuvenation procedures, it is important to know that they cannot produce the same results as surgical neck lifts. However, these nonsurgical procedures may help to postpone the time when surgery is necessary and enhance the effects of surgery.
Time
A deep neck lift is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation and takes two to three hours to complete.
Cost
The cost of a deep neck lift may vary from patient to patient depending on various factors such as the type of correction, surgical fees, and anesthesia fees. A detailed quote will be provided during your consultation.
Process
- Anesthesia is usually provided to help you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. For this procedure, general anesthesia is often preferred. The best choice of anesthesia will be recommended to you by your plastic surgeon.
- You can choose between a limited incision neck lift and a traditional neck lift incision depending on the level of change you want to see after your neck lift procedure. The incision for a traditional neck lift usually starts at the level of the sideburn, travels down and around the ear, and terminates in the back hair. Fat in the jowls and neck can be contoured or redistributed. The platysma muscle is strengthened and the tissue under the neck skin is moved. Excess skin is cut away, and skin is then wrapped over the elevated contours. Liposuction of this region and muscle restoration frequently require a separate incision beneath the chin. The incisions are then sealed off with sutures or skin glue. Incisions are only made around the ear during a neck lift with limited incisions. Although the incisions are smaller, the outcome may be more limited.
- Sutures and skin glue may be used to seal incision lines. The sutures used to close incision lines may be self-dissolving or may require removal in a few days. The scars following a neck lift are typically effectively hidden by blending into the hairline and the ear’s natural arcs.
- Once the bruises and swelling have subsided, the benefits of your deep neck lift procedure become apparent. The outcome of your deep neck lift procedure should not only give you a rejuvenated appearance, but also boost your self-esteem.
Recovery
A bandage could be delicately applied to your face and neck throughout your neck lift recovery to lessen swelling and bruising after the treatment. A tiny tube may be placed to drain any extra blood or fluid that might gather under the skin. You will receive specific instructions on how to care for your surgical site, what medications to apply topically or consume internally to promote healing and lower the risk of infection, what to watch out for in terms of potential problems with the surgical site or with your general health, and when to schedule a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon. It's crucial to maintain a straight posture and rest with your head raised over your heart level to reduce edema.What are the Risks and Possible Complications of a Deep Neck Lift?
The decision to undergo a neck lift is personal and should be carefully considered. You must choose whether the advantages will help you reach your goals and whether the dangers and possible side effects of a deep neck lift are worth it. You will be required to sign consent paperwork to show that you are aware of all the risks and potential consequences associated with the treatment.
Some risks and possible complications of a deep neck lift include: bleeding, anesthesia risks, fluid accumulation, facial asymmetry, infection, persistent pain, changes in skin sensation or numbness, prolonged swelling, poor wound healing, and rare nerve injury that could cause weakness of the lower lip.
FAQs about Deep Neck Lift
How is a deep neck lift done?
- When undergoing a deep neck lift procedure, incisions around your ears, beneath your chin, and close to your sideburn might be performed by your plastic surgeon. Sometimes your surgeon will only make incisions around your ear. Your surgeon will also tighten your platysma muscle, remove fat, and realign tissue under your neck. Your plastic surgeon will also remove extra skin.
What is the recovery time for a neck lift?
- It takes 4-6 weeks for full recovery after a neck lift treatment. However, some patients could continue to feel neck tightness for a few months after their operation. The scars from a deep neck lift procedure will progressively become less visible after about six months.
Do you have to wear a chin strap after a neck lift?
- The chin strap, which is often provided at the second postoperative visit, should be worn all the time for the first week, except when bathing. The chin strap should be worn solely at night during the second week. Your surgeon will remove all scalp stainless steel clips and skin sutures during the first or second week.
Does a neck lift include jowls?
- Due to the fact that a neck lift eliminates the extra skin and fat from the neck and jawline regions, it may be a fantastic option to get rid of jowls. If you do not feel like a deep neck lift is the best procedure for you, you can consult your plastic surgeon to find out about other facial rejuvenation treatments.