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What is a neck lift?

Overview

A neck lift, also known as a lower Rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the signs of aging in the jawline and neck area.

Visible signs of aging usually are more prominent in the jawline and neck area. These include excess fat and skin, particularly in the lower face that creates jowls. It also includes loose neck skin, plus excess fatty deposits underneath the chin. In addition, there can be muscle banding in the neck, which creates abnormal contours.

These visible signs of aging can all be due to many different factors, including age, genetics, gravity, the environment and stress. They result in a loss of a youthful appearance and a reduction in the contours of the neck area.

If the rest of the face still has a pleasing appearance, then a full face lift is not necessary. But for those patients who still see excess wrinkling on their neck skin, known as “turkey wattle” or double chin and jowl lines, then a neck lift is the correct procedure to consider.

Be advised that a neck lift does not change your fundamental appearance, and will not stop the aging process.

Are you a candidate for neck lift surgery?
As with most elective cosmetic procedures, there are several basic criteria that determine if you’re a good candidate for the neck lift procedure. They include:

  • You feel your neck area doesn’t match the appearance of your upper face
  • You have realistic expectations on what the surgery can do for you
  • You’re a non-smoker (smoking can impair the healing process), and you have realistic expectations on what the surgery can do for you
Cost for neck lift surgery
Costs can vary based on individual patient needs and the amount of surgery required.The costs involved in this procedure include facility fees, medical tests, anesthesia fees, Dr. Jimerson’s fee and any medication or post-operative garments that may be required. Our staff will provide you with a detailed cost estimate for your procedure.
The Recovery Process
After the procedure, a bandage is placed around the face and neck area to reduce swelling and bruising.Sometimes a thin drainage tube is placed in the incision to remove any excess fluid or blood.

It’s important to keep your head elevated above your heart and to keep your head straight following the procedure. Never place ice on the neck to reduce swelling, as it can impede the blood flow and severely damage the skin.

Dr. Jimerson will prescribe pain medications to keep you comfortable after the procedure. He will also discuss when you can resume normal activities and exercise.

Once the swelling and bruising goes down, you’ll be able to see the results of the surgery. Your doctor will discuss when you will be able to drive, exercise and resume your normal activities.

The Surgery
You will discuss various anesthesia options with Dr. Jimerson, including sedation and general anesthesia. He will determine the best type of anesthesia based on the procedures, your health history and his preferences.

 

Typically, Dr. Jamison will make an incision at the hairline, around the sideburn area, and continue around the ear down to the back of the hair. In addition to sculpting or removing and redistributing fat, the underlying tissue and the neck skin is repositioned and muscles are tightened. Any excess skin is removed.



If required, an additional incision is made under the chin to perform liposuction of the fat and to repair the muscle.

The skin is then sutured, and skin glue may be used as well.

Risks involved in neck lift surgery
As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks or complications. You have to determine if the benefits that you’ll obtain from your procedure outweigh the risks involved.Dr. Jimerson and his trained staff will do everything possible to minimize risks and postoperative complications. Risks may include:

  • Anesthesia  • Bleeding  • Infection • Scarring •Poor wound healing • Rare nerve injury leading to weakness of the lower lip • Temporary or even permanent hair loss at the incisions • Numbness or skin sensation changes • Persistent pain • Possible need to revise the surgery • Problems with sutures that may require removal

It’s important to discuss any concerns you have with Dr. Jimerson prior to your surgery. If you have a question – please ask!

Meeting with Dr. Jimerson
Prior to the neck lift surgery you will have a consultation with Dr. Jimerson. This is an important appointment, as it will give you an opportunity to ask questions about the procedure and what you can expect from the surgery.He will discuss you specific goals, take a medical history and review your current medications. Photos are usually taken, both before and after the surgery.

 

You will also be able to learn what options are available to you, along with the risks and possible complications of the procedure.

Questions to ask Dr. Jimerson
During your appointment, it’s good to ask Dr. Jimerson questions about your surgery.Here are some questions to consider:

– What surgical technique is recommended?

– How long will the recovery period be for my surgery?

– What risks are associated with my surgery?

– What type of complications can happen?

– When will I be able to see the results of my surgery?

– Do you think that I’m a good candidate for this procedure?

Bes sure to ask any other questions you have about Dr. Jimerson, the procedure or anything else that concerns you about your surgery.

Neck lift surgery preparation
What happens prior to the neck lift surgery? You will have lab tests, and the doctor may have you take new medications or adjust the medications that you’re currently taking.Avoid taking medications that can increase bleeding, like aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and various herbal supplements;

If you smoke, you must stop several weeks prior the surgery, as it can severely impeded the healing process.

Finally, you should arrange to have someone available to drive you home after your surgery, and to be with you for the first night.

Results
After your neck lift, it can take weeks or even months for the swelling to go down and up to six months for the scars to mature. Once the swelling dissipates, you’ll be able to see the results of your neck lift, and see a more youthful appearance. You can expect your results to last a long time, as long as you keep your weight stable and stay fit.Be sure to follow Dr. Jimerson’s instruction following your procedure to obtain optimal results.
Why use Dr. Jimerson and the Advanced Plastic Surgery Solutions team?
Dr. Jimerson and his team have years of extensive training and experience in all areas of cosmetic surgery, liposuction and fat grafting. He has pioneered face and body sculpting techniques that bring patients exceptional, long-lasting results.The team is committed to meet your unique needs, with a natural, long-lasting look. Because of his expertise, Dr. Jimerson offers patients reduced operative times, which means faster recovery times. In addition, he strives to use techniques that are safer than traditional procedures.

 

Schedule your appointment

The best way to determine if neck lift surgery is right for you is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jimerson. The doctor will discuss the procedure, evaluate your concerns relating to your body and answer any questions you may have. To schedule your appointment click here.