When considering any cosmetic surgery procedure, it’s important to weigh the risks and the rewards to help decide if it’s the right choice for you. A neck lift surgery is no different, but many people discover that the dramatic rewards far outweigh any potential risks, especially if you are able to plan ahead to minimize those risks. Learn more about this procedure, what complications are possible, and how you can work with your facial plastic surgeon for a smooth and successful neck lift surgery.
What Is a Neck Lift?
Neck lift surgery is performed to create a slender, more youthful looking neck after age and gravity have affected its appearance. Sagging skin and fat deposits can create many unwanted effects such as turkey neck, jowls, and double chins. The neck is often the first place to show signs of aging and can dramatically increase your perceived age.
The neck lift procedure can involve one or both of two components: cervicoplasty and platysmaplasty. Cervicoplasty is the surgical process of removing excess skin on the chin and neck. Platysmaplasty focuses on weakened neck muscles, removing or altering them as needed. Together, these techniques create a slimmer, better-toned, and more youthful appearance. A neck lift surgery can improve your profile and refine the contour of the lower face and neck.
What Are the Typical Risks of Neck Lift Surgery?
Neck lift surgery, like other facial plastic surgeries, comes with its share of risks. These risks are very rare however. Before undergoing any surgical procedure, it’s essential to understand what complications are possible and how to minimize your risks. Neck lift patients might experience some of the following side effects and complications:
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Infection
- Hematoma or seroma
- Tightness of the neck
- Numbness or tingling
- Asymmetrical results
- Irregularities such as lumpiness
- Visible scars
- Dissatisfying results
- Blood clotting
How Can You Minimize Your Neck Lift Risks?
A neck lift can provide many benefits to the right patients who are looking for a way to reverse the damaging effects of the aging process. Sagging skin, loosened muscles, and even excess fatty deposits can be trimmed away, smoothed, and contoured for a more youthful appearance. The risks, however, should be considered by you and your facial plastic surgeon. Through the consultation process he or she can help to determine if you are a good fit for the procedure and healthy enough for a smooth recovery.
Choosing an experienced board certified facial plastic surgeon is the first step toward protecting yourself against dangerous complications. He or she can work to minimize the risk of infection with properly sterilized tools and antibiotic treatments. By following your surgeon’s detailed instructions for post-operative care, you will actively participate in your own healthy and successful recovery. Taking the time to rest, focusing on your health, and avoiding vigorous activities will cut your risks dramatically. If you’re concerned about having a safe neck lift surgery and recovery, talk to your facial plastic surgeon about your concerns and be open about your medical history to prevent any miscommunications or unnecessary issues.
Where Can I Learn More About Neck Lift Surgery
Decide if a neck lift procedure is right for you after a consultation and close examination of your neck and aging effects. The Canfield VECTRA 3D imaging system can be used to give you a preview of the results you can expect after your treatment. Dr. Rubinstein will use a 3D photograph of you to make appropriate visual alterations and give you a clearer idea of your anticipated results. This strategy can help you to decide on the right treatment for you.
Get a second chance at the youthful, slender neck you really want when you consult with a facial plastic surgeon who is knowledgeable and experienced with neck lift surgeries. Dr. Ran Y. Rubinstein has been practicing in the Hudson Valley for more than 15 years and specializes in esthetic laser producers, facial plastic surgery, nasal, and sinus disorders. He uniquely combines his medical and surgical expertise to help patients feel better and look better. He holds dual board-certification from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, is a member of the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, and is an Assistant Professor at New York Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.
