Neck Lift

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Dallas, TX

Neck Lift USA Plastic Surgery Dr. Steven J. White

A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the contours of the neck. This procedure focuses on tightening sagging skin, diminishing unwanted fullness, and reducing the appearance of the muscle bands that extend upward from the collarbone. The neck serves as an important aspect of our overall facial appearance. A smoother neck can express youthfulness and grace. Many people seek neck lift surgery when they begin to notice changes due to aging or genetics that make them feel self-conscious about their appearance, such as sagging skin, fat deposits, or prominent muscle bands. If you find yourself opting for higher collars or scarves to conceal your neck, a neck lift might be the right solution for you.

USA Plastic Surgery is Dallas’ leading plastic surgery practice and has helped countless patients achieve youthful rejuvenation through targeted treatments. Led by Dr. Steven J. White, our practice employs cutting-edge methods to help patients improve their appearance without lengthy recovery. If you would like to further explore how a neck lift can improve your appearance, please schedule a consultation with Dr. White today. If you have any further questions or would prefer to schedule an appointment over the phone, please do not hesitate to call our Dallas office at (214) 833-6751.

About Neck Lifts

The neck has layers of skin, fat, and muscle; unfortunately, it is also among the first areas to show signs of aging. Factors like fluctuations in weight, sun exposure, and the natural aging process can lead to loose skin, excess fat, and pronounced muscle bands in this area. With aging, decreased collagen production reduces skin elasticity, leading to sagging and wrinkles. (1) Neck rejuvenation aims to counter these aesthetic concerns through various techniques and approaches. Individuals may pursue neck lifts for several reasons: to eliminate double chins, reduce sagginess, improve jawline definition, and achieve an overall more youthful look. Neck lifts can be categorized into multiple types based on individual needs. Each type has unique elements, and the choice largely depends on personal preferences and anatomical considerations. A neck lift can include platysmaplasty, which tightens the platysma muscle; or submental liposuction, which is specifically designed to reduce the presence of a double chin. (1) Cervical contouring is available to contour the neck’s profile and redistribute any excess fat. There are also a handful of non-surgical options like dermal fillers, ultrasound therapy, and radiofrequency treatment that can provide less invasive alternatives to traditional surgery.

Benefits

A neck lift provides many advantages for individuals seeking enhanced aesthetics. When patients undergo treatment at USA Plastic Surgery, they generally see improvements like:

  • Improved confidence: A more defined neck and jawline empower patients, enhancing their overall self-image.
  • Youthful appearance: Cleansing the neck of extra fat and tightening loose skin contributes significantly to a younger look.
  • Elimination of “turkey neck:” Sagging skin can create the appearance of a “turkey neck,” a concern resolved through neck lift surgery.
  • Enhanced jawline definition: A carefully sculpted neck improves the visibility and appeal of the jawline, providing overall facial symmetry.
  • Reduced wrinkles: Neck lifts help to smooth out the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines that develop over time.
  • Defined cervicomental angle: A well-managed neckline leads to improved angle and contour, enhancing one’s profile.
  • Long-lasting results: Unlike temporary solutions like Botox, surgical results maintain a lasting effect, giving patients enduring satisfaction.
  • Concealed scarring: Incisions are placed strategically behind the ear and under the chin to hide visible scars, resulting in a natural-looking finish.

Candidates

Ideal candidates for a neck lift typically experience sagging skin, “turkey necks,” jowls, muscle banding, visible wrinkles, and excess fat below the chin. These individuals are generally in good overall health, non-smokers, and possess realistic expectations for the procedure’s outcome. Age is not strictly a limiting factor, so long as the individual is healthy enough to undergo surgery. Meeting with Dr. White during a consultation will determine if a neck lift aligns with your aesthetic goals.

Personal Consultation

The journey begins with a personal consultation at USA Plastic Surgery. Dr. White will assess your medical history and discuss your cosmetic goals. He will evaluate the condition of your neck, including skin quality, underlying fat, and muscle structure. Based on this assessment, Dr. White will identify whether a neck lift is appropriate or if alternative approaches like non-surgical treatments or combination procedures may suit your needs better. For a deeper understanding of how we can assist you in achieving your desired outcomes, schedule a consultation online today or by calling our Dallas office at (214) 833-6751.

Preparation

Once your treatment plan is finalized, detailed preoperative instructions will be provided. Adhering closely to these guidelines ensures smooth surgery and optimal recovery. These are slightly different for each patient, considering their unique medical history and procedure goals. However, common preparation steps include:

  • Discontinuing blood thinners and certain supplements as directed.
  • Quitting smoking weeks before surgery and remaining tobacco-free throughout recovery.
  • Picking up prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics ahead of surgery.
  • Arrange transportation home post-procedure, especially if sedation or general anesthesia is utilized.
  • Planning time away from work and commitments to allow for proper rest.

Procedure

Your neck lift procedure is performed to meet your unique appearance goals. As such, a few different methods may be employed. If your sagging neck skin is caused by a lax platysma muscle, then you will receive platysmaplasty. In this treatment, Dr. White will make a small incision under the chin. Through this incision, he will access the platysma muscle. Any additional fat may also be removed to enhance contour. (2) Once adjustments are made, the skin is repositioned and sutured for firmness. In cases where isolated fat removal is necessary, submental liposuction will be performed with small incisions in concealed regions. A specialized suction device gently removes pediment fat, sculpting the area beneath the chin. Submental liposuction may also be included in a submentoplasty, where Dr. White will create a skin flap below the chin to tighten muscles. (1)

Neck lift treatment plans regularly incorporate multiple different techniques and methods to achieve a patient’s ideal goals. Through skin removal, muscle tightening, and liposuction, Dr. White will carefully sculpt your neck and chin to meet your planned appearance. Once all necessary corrections are made, your incisions will be sutured shut and dressed, and you can then begin your recovery. (2)

Recovery

Post-operation, your neck will be secured with supportive dressings to manage swelling. Expect some bruising and swelling during the initial days, which is entirely normal. Keeping your head and chest elevated while resting can be beneficial. While discomfort is anticipated, most patients report that tightness replaces pain, manageable with prescribed medications. Follow-up visits will allow Dr. White to monitor healing. Most individuals return to their typical routines within two weeks, unless otherwise advised. After full recovery, patients celebrate a neck that appears firmer with improved contour and definition.

Results

After a neck lift, the visual impact can be stunning. You will likely experience a transformation towards a younger, revitalized appearance. The results appear natural, with inconspicuous scarring, allowing newfound confidence to permeate everyday life.

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures

Neck lifts are almost always performed in conjunction with facelifts. As we go through our lives, our faces showcase the effects of age, environmental factors, stress, and more, resulting in sagging skin, wrinkles, volume loss, disappearing color, and more. In a facelift treatment, also known as a rhytidectomy, the skin is lifted to provide access to underlying facial muscles. These muscles are tightened with sutures and excess skin is removed to sculpt a face that exudes a reignited youthful glow. Patients who receive facelifts emerge from their treatment looking 5-10 years younger on average. When this is performed alongside a neck lift, the results of the neck lift last much longer. Tightening muscles in a facelift provides a stronger foundation for tissue along the jaw, chin, and neck, meaning that they are better supported for a longer period.

Cost of Neck Lifts in Dallas

Neck Lift USA Plastic Surgery Dr. Steven J. White

The total cost of your neck lift will vary depending on the current state of your neck, your appearance goals, the scale of the procedure, other procedures combined in your treatment, and more. After you meet with Dr. White and discuss your procedure goals, you will receive a comprehensive price quote that reflects all the necessary measures required for your treatment. USA Plastic Surgery also offers procedure financing through CareCredit. If you would like to learn more about your treatment costs, please explore our plastic surgery costs page. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our staff is always happy and available to speak with patients; simply call our Dallas office at (214) 833-6751.

FAQ

Does a neck lift help with jowls?

While a neck lift addresses issues primarily beneath the chin, it may not comprehensively treat jowls. Patients with both conditions frequently see optimal results with combined neck lifts and facelifts.

What are some alternatives to a neck lift?

For individuals hesitant about surgical procedures, options like Botox, dermal fillers, or non-invasive therapies like ultrasound therapy deliver transient but attractive enhancements.

Can a neck lift fix a double chin?

Yes, submental liposuction during a neck lift effectively removes excess fatty tissue, creating a more streamlined jawline.

What is the best age for a neck lift?

There is no universally applicable age. Candidates who are in good health and feeling bothered by neck laxity may find neck lifts appealing. Many patients fall within the 35 to 65 age range.

Is a neck lift compatible with a facelift?

Indeed! Combining these procedures often yields profound rejuvenating effects that address both the face and neck.

How painful is neck lift surgery?

Patients do not feel pain during the procedure itself due to the use of anesthesia. Most patients describe the post-surgery experience as involving tightness rather than pain, with symptoms usually subsiding within three weeks.

References

  1. Pérez P, Hohman MH. Neck Rejuvenation. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562229/
  2. O’Daniel TG. Optimizing Outcomes in Neck Lift Surgery. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. Published online February 5, 2021. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjab056