A neck lift (platysmaplasty) is a cosmetic surgery that gives your neck a more contoured and youthful appearance. The surgical procedure removes excess skin and fat around the jawline, effectively lifting and tightening the platysma muscle. Although neck lift surgery does not stop the aging process, the results can last for a long period of time. The procedure is sometimes referred to as a “neck rejuvenation.”
Getting a neck lift is common for people who have:
Neck lifts are commonly done in conjunction with facelifts. Speaking to your doctor is the best way to know if you are a good candidate for either or both of these procedures.
There are many benefits of a neck lift procedure, and chief among them is that it will last years longer than any non-surgical rejuvenation methods. These benefits include:
Your doctor should speak to you about your expectations to make sure that they are realistic before you undergo any cosmetic procedure.
Every surgery involves associated risks. Neck lift surgery risks include:
One non-medical risk of neck lift surgery is that you may not like the results. Discussing all of your options with a surgeon is the best way to avoid disappointment or unhappiness.
Several days prior to surgery, you must stop taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medications. These can include:
You should also stop smoking tobacco products. Along with associated health risks, smoking tobacco promotes wrinkling of the skin and can also slow your recovery and healing. Plan to arrange for a ride home after your surgery and for someone to stay with you that first night.
The three stages of a neck lift procedure may differ for different individuals, but there are some common aspects that you can expect. Before a neck lift:
During a neck lift surgery, you can expect:
The type of surgery will depend on your desired outcome, your budget, and what you want to change about your neck’s appearance.
Once the procedure is completed, you will need to wear a compression garment to reduce any swelling. You will also need to keep your head straight and elevated above the heart. Do not twist or bend your neck.
Facelifts can include components of a neck lift, but the purpose of a facelift is to restore youth to the upper portion of your face. Neck lift surgery is less invasive and focuses on the region below your chin and above your collarbone.
Despite neck lifts having the longest-lasting effects, there are multiple alternatives depending on the desired outcome. Temporary non-surgical options that may require multiple procedures are:
Getting more than one professional opinion may be worthwhile as you decide whether a neck lift or other non-surgical procedure is the best option for you.
A neck lift is typically an outpatient procedure, where the patient goes home the same day. Your doctor may place small, temporary tubes to clear blood and other fluid from beneath the surface of your skin. Neck muscle tightness can also last for several months.
Once you are recovering at home, you should:
Your doctor should send you home with incision care and recovery instructions.
Neck lift results can last for years. The exact duration will depend on the individual’s:
Speak to your surgeon immediately if you experience signs of complications, such as:
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 for immediate emergency care.