Neck Lift

The neck is often the first part of the body that shows age-related blemishes. As human beings age then the loose hanging flaps of skin on our necks begins to lose its ability to hold itself up. This process creates extra skin and fat that gravity pulls downwards and eventually creates rigid wrinkles and other types of blemishes. These blemishes are caused by either extreme weight loss or genetics that come into play later on in a person's life. A neck lift is an excellent procedure that can help reduce these signs of aging and can restore your neck so that your entire body begins to look younger. The medical term for neck lift is platysmaplasty.

The procedure is somewhat invasive which means that several incisions will have to be made by a qualified surgeon. Incisions are made around the ear regions as well as directly underneath the chin. Excess skin can be removed cutting off a small piece of the skin and reattaching the two sides through stitches or staples. Because of the location of the incisions there is little to no noticeable scarring following the operation. The procedure is typically an outpatient operation which means that you will be able to recover from the operation at home. General anesthetic is required and the patient will feel as if they are asleep during the operation. A neck lift will usually take between two to three hours to perform. After any excess skin is removed the surgeon will either remove or alter certain neck muscles in order to tighten the structure of the neck. Liposuction may also be performed on the neck region if the surgeon deems it to be beneficial.

Neck lift patients should plan on setting up a recovery room at home. Recovery from this type of procedure does take time and it is important to be patient during this process. Most surgeons recommend that you take one to two weeks of time off from work and to wait at least one month to participate in any intense physical activity or sports.

Most patients will have some swelling and bruising for several days and may feel a tingling or tightening feeling around the operated areas. This is normal and will cease after a few days. Painkilling medications are often prescribed in order to ease this pain.

The majority of patients are very pleased with how the operation changes their appearance. In the months that follow the operation they admit to having greater self-confidence and are able to wear a wider variety of clothing and still feel comfortable. The goal of the operation is to help the person to look and feel more natural and give the impression that they have lost weight and that they look younger. The effects of a neck lift can last a long time and even last through the patient's entire life. Each year there are thousands of people who benefit from a neck lift operation. If this is an operation that may benefit you then you should seek the counsel of a qualified physician or surgeon.