Over time, the combination of gravity and weight gain may cause significant aging changes to the neck. Extra fat tissue may be deposited in the neck area and the muscles, as well as the skin, may become loose. The overall result is a neck which appears very full and “saggy.” This is not aesthetically pleasing and can contribute significantly to causing an individual to look “old.”

There are various ways to rejuventate the neck area and achieve reversal of these aging changes. In some cases, liposuction of the neck may be all that is needed. In most cases, a full neck lift is required. The goal is to restore the youthful appearance and contours of the neck.

Necklift Techniques

Choosing the right procedure begins with a full examination. Liposuction can be used for those individuals who only have extra fat tissue in the neck, but do not have excess skin or loose muscles.

An individual who has extra fat tissue as well as loose muscles and extra skin will benefit from a full neck lift. In this procedure, a very small incision is made in an inconspicuous area of the neck. Fat is then directly removed and the muscles in the neck are tightened. In most cases, it will not be necessary to remove any skin. This operation restores the neck to its youthful shape and contours. If there is an abundance of extra skin as well, then some skin excision may be needed.

The best procedure for each individual is determined during the consultation.

Neck Lift Surgery Recovery

In general, the more complex the procedure, the longer the recovery. In every case, light bandages will be applied around the neck for the first day or two after surgery. A compressive garment will need to be worn for the first 2-3 weeks after surgery as well. If the muscles are tightened, then a drain may be inserted for the first 24 hours to remove extra fluid.

Most people are able to engage in light activities after 2-3 days. Driving should be avoided for at least 1 week after surgery. Patients are usually able to return to work after a week. Bruising and swelling resolve after 2-3 weeks.

Results

The patient below felt that her neck was too full. She requested liposuction of her neck. We performed liposuction using small cannulas. We made minimal incisions under her chin and behind each earlobe crease. These incisions can’t be seen once they are healed. We liposuctioned underneath her chin, over her neck and along her jawline. As you can see in the “After” pictures, her jawline and neck appear much more defined. There is less fullness. Her entire appearance is improved.

The patient below compained about the excess fat underneath her neck. As you can see in the “Before” picture, the patient has a small collection of excess fat which creates a slight bulging, or convexity, of the neck on profile. Many people have excess fat on their neck which is very resistant to diet and exercise. In this case, liposuction was performed to remove the excess fat deposit. As you can see in the “After” picture, the profile of the neck is much straighter. The bulging has been removed. This improves the overall appearance of the neck.