Procedure name:
Neck lift

Anticipated result of the procedure:
To improve the contour of the neck and create a more attractive, angular neckline by removing fatty accumulation under the neck skin and tightening the deeper muscle layer.

Procedure Description:
The procedure is a limited facelift where the emphasis is only on the neck, not the cheeks or jowls. Surgery of the neck is reached through incisions around the ears and through tiny incisions under the chin. When there is a good deal of extra skin, it needs to be removed as part of the lift. This placement of the incisions permits hiding the scars behind the ears.

Length:
2 to 3 hours.

Anesthesia:
General anesthesia

In/Outpatient:
Outpatient procedure

Temporary Side Effects:
At first, features may be distorted from swelling, facial movements may be somewhat stiff. Bruising may persist for several weeks.

Recovery:
Return to work after two weeks. Rest and application of cold compresses for 24 hours after surgery, followed by gradual resumption of daily activities.

Duration of Results:
Lasts five to ten years. While you will always look younger than if you had not had a neck lift, the aging process will continue.

Risks:
Complications of a neck lift include hematoma (pooling of blood under the skin that must be surgically removed), infection and reaction to anesthesia. Poor healing of the skin is more common with smokers. Hair around temples may be thin and skin may feel dry for several months. Men may find they must shave behind neck and ears, where areas of beard-growing skin have been repositioned.

• Liposuction

Top Duke specialists:
Jeffrey R. Marcus, MD
Michael Zenn, MD

FAQS

Who is a good candidate?
Men and women, usually over age 40 with sagging skin or muscle bands in the neck.

What will the results be?
The surgery shapes the face and neck. In addition, muscles may be tightened and fat removed.

When can make-up be used again?
Usually within 10-14 days.

When can bathing/shampooing begin again?
When you are released to do so by your surgeon.

How lasting are results?
The procedure often delays the need for a facelift for some time. Longevity of results depend on your age and your skin condition.