Orange County Neck Lift with Natural-Results
The contour of the neck is a very important determinant of the perception of a youthful or aged neck. A youthful, attractive neck is often characterized as having an acute cervicomental angle, well-defined jawline, and accentuation of the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM). For some people the neck can be one of the first features which give away our age. Unfortunately, the visible signs of neck aging can be hard to camouflage and hide with clothing or makeup.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift (also called a platysmaplasty) is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure designed to address a double chin or aging neck. Using surgical techniques excess fat and skin are removed and the neck muscles and remaining skin are tightened to restore a smoother, slimmer youthful appearance.
What is a Deep Plane Neck Lift?
Rather than simply removing loose skin and fat, this procedure involves lifting the underlying muscles and tissue to create a more natural, youthful appearance. By accessing the deeper layers of tissue, plastic surgeons can create a more dramatic and long-lasting result. This type of neck lift may be a good option for those who are looking to address the same things as a regular neck lift but have longer lasting results.
How is a Neck Lift Different from a Facelift?
A neck lift is designed primarily to correct age-related changes of the neck (e.g double chin, vertical banding, skin excess). In contrast, the facelift is designed to treat the cheek, jowls, and facial skin, with secondary improvement in the neck contour. In many cases, the neck lift is combined with a lower facelift or other aesthetic facial procedures to achieve balance and harmony in one’s appearance. Both regular and deep plane neck lift, and regular and deep plane facelift procedures can be done by Pacific Plastic Surgery.
What can a Neck Lift Accomplish?
- Correction of the “double chin”
- Elimination of the vertical bands and “turkey gobbler”
- Tighten excess skin and muscle laxity
- Minimize lines and wrinkles
- Reduce jowling and restore jawline definition
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A more youthful appearance
Who is a Candidate for a Neck Lift?
Aging in the neck is an inevitable occurrence, however, the neck lift is most commonly performed on men and women in the late 40s and beyond who have:
- Sagging neck skin and wrinkles
- Vertical bands (“platysma bands”)
- Double chin and/or poor jawline definition
- Are non-smokers in good health
- Realistic Expectation about the procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the incisions for a Neck Lift?
There are three incisions traditionally needed for the neck lift. One is placed under the chin in the submental crease. The other incision is behind the ears, which transitions to the posterior hairline for a variable distance depending upon one’s anatomy.
How to choose between a deep plane and regular facelift?
A standard neck lift typically targets the skin and muscles in the neck area, whereas the deep plane technique goes deeper, addressing the underlying structures as well. This means that a deep plane neck lift can offer more dramatic and longer-lasting results, but may also require a longer recovery period. Ultimately, the best approach for you will depend on your individual goals and needs so contact us today to get a consultation with our surgeon!
What are the risks of a neck lift procedure?
Fortunately, significant complications following a neck lift procedure are rare. However, there are specific risks with any type of surgical procedure which will be discussed during your consultation. Some potential complications following the neck lift are:
- Numbness or changes in sensation
- Infection and bleeding
- Hematoma or seroma (blood or fluid collection under the skin which may require removal)
- Scarring
- Nerve weakness (temporary or permanent)
- Unsatisfactory results that may necessitate additional procedures
What should I expect during my neck lift recovery?
Following the neck lift a bandage will be gently placed around your neck and face overnight, to help minimize swelling and bruising. The neck will feel tight and there will be numbness to the skin of the neck and ears. Bruising will resolve over 1 week but the feelings of tightness and numbness can persist for several weeks to months.
Some patients will have a thin tube in place for 1-3 days to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin. It will be important to keep your head elevated above your heart to minimize swelling for the first 1- 2 weeks and to avoid excessive twisting or bending of the neck. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for 3 weeks.
You will be given specific instructions on how to care for the surgical site and medications to apply and/or take orally to aid in healing and reduce the potential risk for infection. Sutures are in place for 7-10 days following surgery. It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals, especially if other procedures are concurrently performed. However, most patients can return to their normal activities within 7-14 days.
Expert Neck Lift Surgeon in Orange County
Dr. Jacob Boeckmann is a double board certified Facial Plastic Surgeon respected for his surgical skills and natural results. He and his Orange County staff are dedicated to patient health, safety, and comfort. Dr Boeckmann has dedicated his practice exclusively to rejuvenation of the aging face and is frequently sought after for his natural neck lift results in Orange County. To learn more about the neck lift procedure in Orange County, contact the Laguna Niguel office at 949-273-3112 to schedule your consultation.
