What is Necklift?
The neck lift, also called a cervicoplasty, is a procedure at Pacific Palisades Plastic Surgery that is designed to remove both excess skin and fat and tighten muscles that can lead to the appearance of a saggy or loose neck. Excess skin in the neck can lead to self-esteem issues in patients of any age. It is a common cause for feelings of self-consciousness and is common in middle-aged and older patients, both male and female. Many patients feel it makes them appear older than they are, tired, and frumpy, or unfashionable.
What Is Involved In A Necklift?
A neck lift at Pacific Palisades Plastic Surgery involves incisions below the chin, near the ears, which allows the surgeon to access the fat, muscles and skin of the chin and neck. Through these incisions, fat can be removed by either cutting or with liposuction techniques and the muscles of the neck can be tightened. Once the muscles are tightened and excess fat has removed the skin of the neck can also be cut and re-draped across the neck. The incisions are closed using sutures and medical dressings are applied to provide pressure and a sterile environment for proper healing. Depending on the specifics of the procedures involved the surgeon may need to remove the sutures later or may use sutures that dissolve on their own. Surgical drains may be placed for several days in order to ensure that excess fluid does not collect beneath the skin.
RECOVERY FROM A NECK LIFT
Depending on the type of anesthesia used, local or general anesthetic, patients will remain under observation in a recovery room for up to several hours before being allowed to return home. Patients will need to have a responsible friend, loved one, or relative on hand to drive them home and help and monitor them for the first 24 hour period of their recovery.
All antibiotic and painkiller prescriptions will be provided prior to the surgery date and should be filled and ready for when patients return home for recovery. Most patients are fitted with compression bandages that will be worn for 7-10 days and will help increase blood flow and minimize swelling.
In Preparation
Our doctors always instruct patients to avoid certain medications including over the counter painkillers and other drugs that are known blood thinners. Blood thinners can lead to severe complications during surgery and recovery and are advised against during all surgeries. Patients who smoke should plan to quit for several months before and after. Smoke inhibits the blood oxygen supply, which can also cause severe problems during surgery and cause the recovery period to be prolonged.