What Are the Potential Side Effects of Neck Lift Surgery?
Whether a result of aging, weight loss, or sun damage, loose skin on the neck can leave patients looking and feeling older than they are. Unfortunately, once loose neck skin develops, it's difficult or impossible to get rid of with diet and exercise. Neck lift surgery can help those who are unhappy with the appearance of loose, sagging neck skin to achieve a slender and more youthful neck and jaw line. However, as with any surgery, there are some potential side effects to be aware of when considering the neck lift procedure. For more information about neck lift side effects, schedule a consultation with Minneapolis, MN plastic surgeon Gregory T. Mesna.
The Neck Lift Procedure
The neck lift procedure takes about two to three hours and may be performed in combination with other facial surgeries for a completely rejuvenated look. Each surgery will vary based on the patient needs and desired goals.
A typical neck lift procedure is generally performed by making small incisions behind the ears and under the chin. Excess fat is then removed and the underlying muscles and tissues may be tightened. Once the desired tautness is achieved, excess tissue is removed and the incisions are sutured closed to complete treatment.
The Side Effects of Neck Lift Surgery
Some side effects may be expected after neck lift surgery. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Pain and discomfort: Patients can expect to experience some pain and discomfort at the incision sites and from tissue manipulation during the first few days after neck lift surgery. Pain medication may be prescribed to help alleviate discomfort during this time.
- Swelling: Swelling is the body's natural response to healing and is very common after a neck lift. Swelling is generally worse during the first few days after surgery but will subside as the body heals. Most swelling will be gone within two weeks but may take a full three months to completely resolve.
- Bruising: Bruising may also occur after neck lift surgery due to stretching and manipulating the neck tissues. Bruising should fade as the body recovers, generally fully resolving within two weeks.
- Scarring: Although incisions are placed in discreet locations, hidden behind the ears and under the chin, there may still be some scarring. The degree of scarring will depend on personal likelihood of scarring. In most cases, scars will fade over time.
Candidates for Neck Lift Surgery
Neck lift surgery can result in a more slender, defined neck and jaw line, but it is not right for everyone. Candidates for neck lift surgery should be in good health with sufficient elasticity to their skin. Men and women between the ages of 40 and 80 that are unhappy with one or more of the follow issues may benefit from neck lift surgery:
- Loose, hanging neck skin
- Fat under the chin creating the appearance of a double or triple chin
- Excess neck fat or skin
- Jowls or hanging skin at the jaw line
- Sun or wind damaged skin
- Neck banding
Find Out if the Neck Lift Procedure Is Right for You
If you long for a slender, defined neck, the neck lift procedure may be right for you. To find out if you're a candidate, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mesna today.