Neck lift surgery
A neck lift is usually done in conjunction with a face lift although in some people the neck is the main component that requires rejuvenation, e.g., excess wrinkling in the skin on the neck, a double chin, and/or jowl lines. In these cases, the neck lift may be the main focus of surgery.
This section should be read in conjunction with the Facelift section as they are closely related.
What does a neck lift involve?
Neck lift surgery will generally involve removing and tightening excess skin - the exact procedure will vary for each patient. Usually, the platysma (thin layer of muscle underlying the neck skin) is tightened and repositioned (platysmaplasty). Fat may be resected or redistributed to nearby areas to create a more sculpted look. At times, very small parts of the submandibular gland and/or parotid gland may be removed to further contour the neck. Incisions generally extend from in front of the ear lobe within a skin crease to the side of the neck behind the ear and along the hairline.
A neck lift is often performed for cosmetic purposes, but can also be conducted as part of a reconstructive procedure. Dr Sydney Ch’ng has extensive experience in conducting neck lift procedures for a wide range of individuals looking to achieve their desired results.
WHAT TO EXPECT FOLLOWING A NECK LIFT
Dr Sydney Ch’ng conducts neck lift procedures in Sydney, under general anaesthetic in a fully accredited hospital. Neck lift is usually done in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures like a face lift at the same time.
Following the procedure, patients can expect a feeling of tightness around the neck, which can last over the coming weeks post-surgery. There may also be slight bruising and swelling around the neck.
WHEN IS A NECK LIFT PERFORMED?
To reduce the signs of ageing
The most common reason for a neck lift is to reduce the signs of ageing. Neck lift surgery will tighten loose skin and remove excess weight in the area, reducing the appearance of jowls, wrinkles, and inevitable signs of ageing.
Neck lift for facial contouring
A neck lift may be performed to contour the lower face and neck, to create a more defined jawline and chin. In some cases, genetics and excess fat may contribute to the neck area becoming less defined, and a neck lift can help to restore and tighten the skin in the area.
Neck lift for reconstructive purposes
A neck lift may also be conducted to help restore symmetry. In cases of facial asymmetry from cancer resection, or previous surgery/trauma to the area, a neck lift may be a viable option as part of facial reconstruction.
Necklift Recovery: What's Involved?
Neck lift surgery is a major procedure that requires an experienced surgeon to ensure the surgery is both free from serious complications and achieves the desired results. Aftercare and recovery is an important part of ensuring these results.
Most patients return to work at four to six weeks following surgery but the final results from a neck lift can take up to nine months to become apparent.
Most patients return to work and social events after three to four weeks. For a major social event, e.g., wedding of a family member/friend, it is recommended to schedule surgery at least three months out.
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Of course, recovery from neck lift surgery is a continuum, but can be thought of conceptually as different phases/ stages. Waking up from surgery, you may feel groggy and unsteady. Within the first few days following surgery, you will likely feel discomfort (tightness) or pain from the haemostatic net applied to the skin under the chin and jawline. The haemostatic net keeps the skin exactly where it is intended to be and reduces the risk of haematoma (bleeding). The haemostatic net is generally removed on Day 5/6. A drain is usually not required. Neck lift patients generally stay overnight in hospital. It is important to have someone drive you home the next day.
Dr Ch’ng will review you in Recovery after surgery and the next morning in the ward to assess pain, incisions, and any swelling. Once discharged on Day 1, you should do light movements around the house. At the Day 3/4 mark, swelling and bruising may be at their height, however, you should start to feel better. You won't be able to wash your face/neck or hair until Day 5/6 when the haemostat net is removed. Use facial wipes and moisturiser around the Micropore tape placed in the operating room. Sleep on your back on a U-shaped pillow propped up on another pillow. The Micropore tape will be removed when the haemostatic net is removed on Day 5/6. Following removal of the haemostatic net, you should apply moisturiser over the haemostatic net suture marks. We do NOT routinely advise wearing of a facelift garment.
The first week of neck lift recovery primarily involves rest. By Day 6, you can expect swelling to be significantly reduced, and you will be able to reduce pain medication. You will need someone to assist with home chores in the first week.
You should be on a soft diet for 4-6 weeks after surgery and drink lots of fluid.
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While some swelling and bruising may occur in the face and neck, it will begin to fade after the first week following surgery. During this time, you may feel tingling, numb, or tight sensations which is common and not a cause for concern. The temporary redness and marks from the haemostatic net will start to fade as well but can take up to six weeks to resolve.
Two weeks following surgery, you should begin to feel more energy. You can wash your face/neck and hair in the second week but you should be careful not to over-extend your neck . During your follow-up appointment, Dr Ch'ng will advise when you can return to some light exercises, like walking. Most mums feel confident doing school drop-offs and pick-ups in the second week.
As a general rule, the sutures are removed around Day 14 (notwithstanding the haemostatic net which is usually removed on Day 5/6). You should start applying silicone gel to the haemostatic net sutures marks and incisions (following suture removal) from Day 14.
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While you may still have some swelling and tight sensations in the neck, you will begin to see improvements in the contours.
By the fourth week, you should be getting ready to return to work. In saying this, it is important to be cautious about your incisions and avoid strenuous exercise that may impact recovery. At four weeks, minor swelling, tightness, and numbness may still be present, but should not get in the way of daily life.
During this time, it’s important to be mindful of the incision sites and practice sun protective measures, like avoiding direct sunlight and wearing sunscreen and a hat when outdoors.
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Although most patients can return to their normal activities at four to six weeks with a rejuvenated appearance, it can take up to 9 months to completely recover from neck lift surgery. At 9 months, the patient will have approached the final results without swelling, clear incision marks, and unusual sensations, like tightness.
Within the first year of surgery (usually at Week 1, 2, 4 and 6; and 3, 6, 9 and 12 Month), individuals will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to assess the recovery process and address any concerns or queries. It is not uncommon for Dr Ch’ng to recommend repeating certain minor procedures, like microfat grafting, if there are any minor irregularities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr Ch'ng's most frequently asked questions regarding neck lift surgery.
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A neck lift is frequently combined with a facelift hence the risk profile is similar.
Neck lift surgery focuses on defining the jawline and neck region – effective in itself to lift a sagging neck. However, combining neck lift surgery with facelift is a comprehensive approach to rejuvenating the overall appearance of the face and neck.
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Yes, and like facelift, the scars are hidden in less conspicuous areas, like within a skin crease, within or along the hairline.
Get in touch
If you’d like to know more about our head and neck, plastic or skin cancer surgical services, or if you have a question for Dr Ch’ng, we’d love to hear from you.
