NECK LIFT

As you age, the skin around the neck and lower jaw line begin to sag. This is often referred to as a "Turkey Neck" and can be corrected with a Neck Lift.  During this procedure, the board-certified plastic surgeons at the Aesthetic Center of Gainesville will carefully trim away extraneous and sagging skin under the chin and around the neck. The remaining skin, as well as underlying muscles, will be tightened for long-lasting results. Afterwards, patients will be proud to show off a slimmer, more contoured profile. When abundant fat is a problem, the surgeons also perform liposuction for the best results.

A neck lift will address several issues including the removal of excess fat, the trimming of hanging skin and the tightening of loose skin around the underlying neck muscles. An incision is made under the chin, and in some cases, behind or in front of the ears. If fat removal is part of this surgery, liposuction will be the first step. Next, the neck muscles (platysma) are pulled tight and the overlying skin is stretched and re-draped to achieve the desired definition. Sutures are placed deep within the neck wall and a drain may be inserted to control bleeding.

A neck lift is considered an outpatient procedure, performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. This surgery typically takes 2 hours to complete, but that will vary by surgical case. After surgery, there will be some bruising and swelling. Patients will feel tightness and a pulling sensation as the neck adjusts to its new position. Most patients are able to return to work within 7-10 days. It can take several months for the optimal results to appear and for the neck to look and feel natural. 

NONSURGICAL NECK LIFT?

Kybella® may be an option for those looking to improve the appearance and profile of fat below the chin. The injectable drug is used by the medical professionals at the Aesthetic Center of Gainesville to target the fat beneath the chin and in the upper neck. Kybella’s active ingredient, deoxycholic acid, works to destroy the fat in the area to leave a slimmer, more contoured neck and profile. You can learn more about the procedure here.

VISIBLE SCARS?

A neck lift does require an incision under the chin and near the ears. However, these are placed inconspicuously (within the hairline on the ears and under the chin) so looking straight ahead you will not see them. We make every effort during surgery to minimize visible scarring as much as possible.

AVERAGE AGE?

Patients in their 60s and 70s often undergo a neck lift to cosmetically treat the visible signs of aging. Individuals in their 20s and 30s may also benefit from a neck lift, especially those who have experienced a massive weight loss or have a hereditary defect of the neck. 

NECK OR CHIN?

Some patients will have issues with their neck, but these problems may actually be the result of a “weak chin.” Without the proper support of the chin bone, the neck isn’t able to have a defined contour. A chin implant (genioplasty or mentoplasty) may be recommended to reshape the chin and make it wider or more prominent. This can have a great impact on the neck for many patients. This surgery is considered a reconstructive procedure and requires the skill of an experienced surgeon. A neck lift may still be needed once the chin has been corrected.

Neck lift surgery is truly the only way to remove loose and sagging skin around the neck. Our experienced team of surgeons perform this surgery often and are trained to create natural looking results. Contact our Ganesville  location today to set up a consultation.