Neck lift surgery in San Francisco at UCSF is performed by facial plastic and reconstructive surgery trained surgeons at the university’s state-of-the-art facilities. Drs. Knott and Park have expertise in all the latest techniques in face and neck lifting, as well as other facial rejuvenation procedures. At UCSF, you can expect the best care throughout your rejuvenation journey by a nationally recognized team of staff members, nurses, and physicians.
Your neck is the platform or pedestal for your face. Lacking the bony support found in the face, the neck may sag as a result of aging or weight loss, and is often affected before the face. Loose neck muscles can lead to an appearance of bands on the central neck or drooping of the skin and fat. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that can smooth and tighten the skin on the neck and provide a more toned, youthful appearance. A neck lift may be performed alongside a facelift or alone. It can be performed laterally with incisions made behind the ears, or centrally with a single incision made under the chin.
Candidates for Neck Lift
A candidate for a neck lift may be anyone who wants to get rid of sagging skin and loose muscles on their neck. You should discuss the goals of your surgery with your surgeon so that you can achieve the results you desire.
Procedure
The central neck lift, or platysmaplasty, begins with making a small, inconspicuous incision directly below the chin. From this approach, the fat under the chin and in the central neck can be removed. If narrow vertical bands are present, these may be addressed with a corset type technique, creating a continuous, smooth support for the entire neck. If a lateral approach is used, incisions are made behind the ears going into the posterior hairline. This approach tightens the neck skin and sharpens the neckline and jawline. Liposuction can also be used to remove excess fat during a neck lift. The incisions will then be sutured closed and the neck lift is completed.
The entire neck lift procedure takes two to three hours and may be performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the preference of the patient. Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis.
Recovery
You can expect to experience some swelling and bruising shortly after the neck lift procedure, which may last up to ten days. Patients are advised to keep their head still and avoid turning or twisting for the first few days. Applying cold compresses and keeping your head elevated for the first 48 hours following neck lift surgery can help minimize swelling. Prescription medication is also available to help alleviate any discomfort.
The sutures will usually be removed after about one week. After a neck lift procedure, most people can return to work and other normal daily activities within two weeks, after bruising and swelling subside. More strenuous activities should be avoided for about four to six weeks.
To learn more about a neck lift and whether or not this procedure is right for you, please call us today to schedule a consultation.