The neck is often one of the first areas of the body to show visible signs of aging. Gravity, genetics, weight loss, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits can all contribute to aging of the neck – which usually appears as loose or sagging skin and sometimes excess fat. Neck lifts are cosmetic procedures used to improve the appearance of the neck, eliminating sagging jowls, excess skin and fat. The results are usually long-lasting and can take several years off a patient’s appearance.
Procedure
Neck lifts are often performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as facelifts or neck liposuction. During the surgery, a small incision is made inconspicuously beneath the neck or along the lower crease of the ear. Through that incision, the neck muscles can be pulled tighter and excess fat removed. The skin is then trimmed to fit the new contour of the neck before being sutured shut and bandaged to minimize post-procedural swelling. The recovery period usually takes several weeks, though most patients can return to work within 10 to 14 days.
