A neck lift treats laxity in the sub mental and neck areas. The muscle underneath called the platysma is treated when there are present deep cords or unsightly bands that may form in the neck.
One of the fundamental steps of the procedure is to remove the excess fatty tissue by means of a liposuction with small cannulas to give a better definition of the mandibular and jaw line.
This is the preferred procedure by many young patients that have an excess of fat or localized flaccidly in the area of the neck, but no mid or upper face flaccidly. Additional procedures, such as eyelid surgery, or fat transfer can be performed at the same time to effect a more complete facial rejuvenation.
THE PROCEDURE
Neck lifts are usually performed under local anesthesia and sedation. The first step of the procedure is to infiltrate anesthetic solution using the tumescent technique in a similar way to the one described for the other liposuction procedures, so bleeding is minimized.
Two 0, 3 inches incisions are placed behind the crease of the ears and liposuction is carried out with fine non traumatic cannulas. Following this a small incision is placed in the small crease hidden under the chin in order to complete the liposuction and treat the platysma muscle underneath, so it is repositioned and tightened with sutures.
If there is an excess of skin it is removed at that time. The incisions are then close and a light stockinet-type dressing is applied.
POST OPERATORY
This surgery is done as an outpatient procedure, so you will be discharged after resting in your suite and feels comfortable to go. It is advised to apply cold compresses and to keep the head elevated during the first 48 hours to minimize the swelling.
You may be given prescription pain medication, but it is unlikely that you would need to use it for more than a day, if at all. Sutures are removed usually after 5 to 7 days.
You will be allowed to return to work in two to four days, but most people would wait a week to allow bruising to resolve.
