What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck. It involves making small incisions behind the ears and under the chin to access and tighten the underlying muscles and remove excess skin and fat. At Cultura Dermatology and Plastic Surgery in Washington, DC, Dr. Kelly Bolden, FACS uses this procedure to tighten loose skin, remove excess fat, and enhance the overall contour of the neck and jawline, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance.
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What Does a Neck Lift Treat?
The neck can sag due to various factors, including age, genetics, sun damage, and significant weight loss. Over time, the skin loses elasticity and muscles weaken, leading to these common concerns.
Turkey Neck
Turkey neck is the presence of excess, stretched skin under the chin. A neck lift can excise this skin, creating a smoother, more contoured jawline.
Double Chin
A double chin can be a genetic feature, or it can be the result of aging and weight fluctuations. A neck lift can be combined with liposuction or surgical excision to remove stubborn fat underneath the chin.
Neck Bands
Neck bands are sagging platysmal muscles that become more visible with age. A neck lift can resuspend these muscles, creating a slender, more youthful look to the neck.
Common Related Procedures
A neck lift can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures to enhance the overall result, including:
Liposuction: Removes excess fat deposits in the neck area.
Facelift: Addresses aging signs on the mid to lower face.
The Advantages of Necklift Surgery
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Enhanced Jawline Contour
Creates a more defined jawline that frames the face.
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Reduced Sagging and Wrinkles
Minimizes the appearance of sagging skin and wrinkles on the neck.
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Eliminated Double Chin
Removes excess fat under the chin, often called a double chin.
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Rejuvenated Appearance
Offers a more youthful and refreshed look, often making patients look like they have lost weight.
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Candidates for Necklifts
Ideal candidates for a neck lift include patients experiencing loose skin, wrinkles, and excess fat on the neck and wishing to restore a more youthful and refined appearance. Being in good general health and a non-smoker is important, as these factors can affect the procedure’s success. Additionally, having realistic expectations about surgical results is essential.
Read morePreparing for a Necklift
Preparation involves a consultation with Dr. Bolden, who will provide detailed preoperative instructions. These instructions are designed to ensure your safety and optimize the procedure results. They may include guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain medications. Following these instructions closely is important to preparing for surgery.
Read moreNeck Lift Recovery
Recovery from a neck lift involves wearing a compression garment to support the new contour and minimize swelling. Most patients experience mild discomfort that can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Normal activities can usually resume within two weeks, with full recovery taking several weeks. It’s important to note that individual recovery times vary.
Cost of a Neck Lift
The cost of a neck lift at Cultura Plastic Surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure and whether additional procedures are included. Dr. Bolden provides a detailed pricing breakdown during the consultation, where patients can also discuss financing options.
What to Expect From a Neck Lift Consultation
During the consultation, Dr. Bolden will thoroughly assess the neck’s skin quality and structure, discuss aesthetic goals, and determine the best surgical approach. She ensures that every patient feels fully informed, comfortable, and confident about their decision to proceed with surgery.
