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Neck Lift
(Cervicoplasty)

Performed either alone or as part of a face lift, a neck lift can remove excess skin, fatty tissue and banding, and restore a smooth, refined appearance to the neck.

For people with loose sagging skin under the chin, vertical bands in the neck, "turkey wattles" or necks that are too heavy, neck lift surgery - either alone or in combination with other cosmetic procedures - can produce very gratifying results.

Different procedures are used to address each of these problems:

  • Sagging skin may be tightened or removed using a procedure called Cervicoplasty.
  • To correct vertical bands or wattles, a technique called Platysmaplasty can be used to tighten the muscles of the neck.
  • Fat deposits can be removed directly or by liposuction.

The quality of the result will depend upon the elasticity of the neck skin and degree of sun damage to the area. Naturally, it is important to have realistic expectations, but fortunately current techniques allow for an elaborate and detailed restitution of a youthful contouring the neck, that can benefit patients with a variety of problems.

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Neck lift consultation

During your consultation your surgeon will take a general medical history and ask about other surgeries you may have had. Then the two of you will discuss your goals for the procedure and your surgeon will explain what results you can reasonably expect. Often, in particular for patients after their mid-40s, the lower part of the submandibular glands is palpable below the jaw line, and with a more simplistic approach to neck rejuvenation may sometimes become more visible at the surgery. It is possible during the neck lift procedure to address both the superficial and deep seated fatty tissue in the neck, as well as trim the lower poles of the submandibular glands, for a more detailed neck contouring.

You'll decide which procedure or combination of procedures is best and whether you should have your neck lift in conjunction with a face lift or other cosmetic procedure. You will also decide what kind of anaesthesia will be used.

What to expect from neck lift operation

Neck lift surgery usually takes between two and three hours, longer if it is being performed in conjunction with a face lift or other procedure. If it is being performed alone, neck lift surgery is usually done as a day case.

  • If you have vertical bands or wattles that need to be addressed by platysmaplasty surgery, your surgeon will make small incisions under your chin or behind your ears to reach the your neck muscles and move them as needed.
  • If you are having cervicoplasty surgery to correct loose and sagging skin, your surgeon will make similar incisions, trim the skin, move it into place and secure it using stitches or tissue glue. Your surgeon may also fit you with a compression bandage and instruct you to wear it continuously for at least a week.
  • If excess fat must be removed, you surgeon may use liposuction, a process whereby fat is vacuumed away through thin cannulas. If this is the only procedure you are having it should take an hour or less. For a more extensive contouring, even in the presence of excess fatty tissue which can be related to genetic predisposition, lipodystrophy or excess weight, direct reduction of the fatty tissue through an incision under the chin is the procedure of choice.

After neck lift surgery

In the days after your surgery there are several things you should expect:

  • Depending on how extensive your procedure was, you may have some swelling and bruising. Both should settle in four to ten days.
  • You may also experience feelings of tightness, burning, pulling and numbness. These are normal in the first few weeks and will resolve on their own.
  • If you have sutures that need removing they will be taken out a week to ten days after your surgery.
  • Any discomfort you experience can be controlled by taking paracetamol or medication provided by the hospital. Do not take aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medication as these can promote bleeding.
  • If you smoke, you will need to stop entirely for two weeks before and two to three weeks after your surgery to allow your body to heal in the best conditions.
  • You should be able to return to work in one to two weeks, however you will need to avoid physical activities like sports for at least three weeks, possibly longer.

Summary

Anaesthesia
Twilight with Local or General if required

Hospital stay
1 night, or more if necessary

Removal of Stitches
7 - 10 days

Return to work
2 weeks

Full recovery
3 - 6 months

Patient testimonials

"I would like to say a big thank you for everything you have done for me. I'm really pleased with my final results."

More testimonials

Your choice

Is cosmetic surgery right for you? As a practice dedicated exclusively to cosmetic surgery and headed by a highly experienced surgeon, we have the expertise and understanding to help you answer that question wisely.

This web site is intended to be a helpful starting point. You'll find answers to frequently asked questions, descriptions of the various procedures offered, information about the consulting surgeon who directs the practice and more. If you have additional questions, please fill in the Contact Form to arrange a private consultation with Mr Lucian Ion.

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Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Ltd and Mr Lucian Ion, FRCS (plast) have provided this cosmetic surgery website for informational purposes only. It is not intended for medical advice. For more information about cosmetic surgery in London, please contact Mr Lucian Ion for a cosmetic surgery consultation at our practice located in London, 129 Harley Street.