What is a Neck lift?
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that defines the neckline and tightens loose skin around the jawline (jowls). It can also reduce neck banding, creating a smoother and more youthful appearance.
Types of Neck Lifts
There are two types of neck lifts, each serving different patient needs.
- Platysmaplasty (Neck Tuck): This procedure focuses exclusively on tightening neck bands under the chin, which can create an unsightly appearance. It does not address loose jowls at the jawline.
- Lower Facelift (Lower Rhytidectomy): A more comprehensive procedure, this tightens neck bands and loose skin at the jawline, refining the overall jawline.
What Issues Can a Neck Lift Fix?
How can I get rid of my turkey neck?
A neck lift can address various concerns depending on the type of procedure:
Platysmaplasty (Neck Tuck)
This procedure benefits patients who experience:
- Banding or cording on the neck
- A double chin caused by excess fat
Patients who don't have loose jowls will find this procedure focuses primarily on tightening the area under the chin.
Lower facelift (Lower rhytidectomy)
For patients experiencing more extensive issues, the lower facelift can address:
- Wrinkling on the neck
- Loose skin (often referred to as "turkey neck")
- Sagging jowls due to aging or weight loss
- An undefined jawline
- Banding or cording on the neck
- A double chin from excess fat
Other neck procedures
Younger patients with good skin tone but fatty tissue under the chin might benefit more from liposuction.Additionally, patients with a smaller chin may dramatically improve their overall facial appearance with a chin implant combined with a neck lift.
How is a Neck lift performed?
Dr. Rodriguez performs both types of neck lifts under IV sedation at our Quad A-accredited surgery center in Baltimore, Maryland. Here's a summary of each procedure:
Platysmaplasty (Neck Tuck)
Dr. Rodriguez makes a small incision under your chin to access the platysma muscle. He tightens this muscle and removes any excess skin, refining the appearance of the neck. The incision is then sutured, leaving a small, horizontal scar that fades over time. The entire procedure typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.
Lower Facelift (Lower Rhytidectomy)
Dr. Rodriguez not only tightens the neck bands but also addresses the loose skin around the jowls. He makes incisions under your chin and in front of your ears to lift and remove the excess skin. This technique sharpens the jawline and provides a more defined look. Commonly referred to as a "lower facelift," this procedure generally takes about 5 hours.
What are the preoperative requirements?
Here's what you'll need to do to prepare:
- Quit smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery
- Stop taking multivitamins, herbals, and aspirin 2 weeks before surgery
- Get a medical clearance, including a physical examination and CBC blood test, within 30 days of your surgery
- Fill all necessary prescriptions before the surgery date
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before surgery
What is Neck lift Post-Op recovery like?
After surgery, a surgical garment or headband will be placed around your neck to maintain a good contour. For both types of neck lifts, you'll be asked to sleep with your head elevated (above your heart) to aid in the healing process and diminish swelling. While there will be some swelling and bruising, you should not apply ice to your neck area since it can hinder blood flow. Drains are sometimes used with the Platysmaplasty (Neck tuck), and almost always used with the Lower rhytidectomy (Lower facelift).
Follow these recovery tips:
- Keep the surgical garment in place for the first 24 hours
- Wear the neck garment for 1 week
- Sleep with your head elevated for the first week
- Avoid applying ice to the area
- Drains, if used, will be removed in the office 2 days post-op
You will have post-op appointments at 2 days, 1 week, 1 month, and 4 months. Here is a general recovery timeline:
- Return to work after 1 week for Platysmaplasty and 2 weeks for a Lower Facelift
- Resume light exercise at 2 weeks
- Resume full activities in 4-6 weeks
- Most bruising will resolve within a month
What are the risks and possible complications?
While neck lift surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks, including:
- Anesthesia-related risks
- Bleeding
- Hematoma
- Infection
- Swelling
- Scarring
- Revision surgery to reine results
How much does a Neck lift cost?
The cost of a neck lift depends on the type of procedure performed. Total costs include the surgeon's fee, operating room fee, anesthesiologist's fee, recovery room, post-op garments, and follow-up visits.
| Type of Neck lift | 2024 Price |
|---|---|
| Platysmaplasty (Neck tuck): tighten neck bands only | $4,700 |
| Lower faceLift (Lower rhytidectomy): tighten neck bands and jawline/jowls | $9,500 estimated |
During your initial evaluation and consultation, we will give you an exact quote customized to your specific needs.
Can I finance my Neck lift?
Yes, financing options are available to help manage the cost of your [insert procedure]. Call us at 410-404-8100 or see our financing page for more information.
Ready to explore what's possible? I invite you to schedule a personal consultation, where we can talk about your goals, answer your questions, and create a plan that's uniquely yours.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Together, we'll find the perfect approach to help you look and feel your best.
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Board Certified Plastic Surgery, ASPS Member
NOTICE
Patients depicted in our before and after galleries have provided their written consent to display their photos online. Every patient is unique, and surgical results may vary. Please contact us if you have any questions.