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 Causes the Neck to Sag?
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 the common appearance of “turkey neck” or “double chin.”
Before and After Photos
Our before and after gallery features transformations using the neck lift performed by Dr. Bolden. Patients can view more before-and-after images during a consultation to understand possible results.
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.
self care is self love!
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.
Results of Neck Lift
The results of a neck lift are immediately noticeable, and the final results become more visible as swelling and bruising subside. The results are long-lasting, but aging and lifestyle factors can affect their longevity.
Risks of Neck Lift
As with any surgical procedure, a neck lift carries risks such as infection, complications from anesthesia, scarring, and temporary changes in skin sensation. Dr. Bolden will thoroughly discuss these risks during the consultation so patients feel confident in their choice to undergo surgery.
After necklift surgery, patients are advised to keep their heads elevated, even while sleeping. A liquid diet is recommended for the first 12-18 hours, followed by a soft diet for several days. Discomfort post-surgery is typically minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or a mild narcotic if necessary. The day after surgery, bandages under the chin are removed, and patients are placed in a compression wrap to reduce swelling and promote neck contouring. Submental stitches are typically removed after five days, and stitches behind the ears are removed after seven to ten days unless they are absorbable. Bruising and swelling are normal during the first week, but patients can often return to work within a week following necklift surgery. Some makeup may be needed to conceal any residual bruising. Patients will continue to notice improvement in their neck contour for up to eight weeks after surgery.
The treatment protocol for necklift surgery involves a personalized consultation with Dr. Kelly Bolden, followed by a surgical procedure tailored to each patient's unique needs. The surgery typically addresses skin laxity, excess fat, and muscle separation in the neck area.
Common side effects of necklift surgery include minimal pain, discomfort, swelling, and bruising, all of which are temporary and part of the normal healing process. Patients may also experience tightness in the neck area during the initial recovery period.
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.
