Neck Lift

Dr. Hilinski is "Double Board Certified" in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.

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The neck lift, also known as submentoplasty, is a procedure that helps to improve your neck contour. As you age, the skin and muscle below the chin begins to relax and sag downward. In addition, excess fatty deposits can exaggerate this effect. Unfortunately, this natural process results in unwanted fullness along the neckline that contributes to a tired, aged look.

Necklift surgery can take years off of your look by removing the excess sagging skin. Surgery also typically involves reshaping the underlying neck muscles (platysmaplasty) and/or performing liposuction for excess fat deposits. Good candidates for the neck lift include healthy men and women who are bothered by unwanted sagging of the neck and/or jawline. Patients often complain of looking prematurely aged due to excess laxity that drapes down below the jaw and/or undesirable fullness below the chin.

Before & After Photos

Neck lift surgery is often done in conjunction with face lift surgery, but it can be performed as an isolated procedure. Usually a hidden incision is made beneath the chin, through which the muscles are tightened and the fatty deposits are removed. In some cases, an additional hidden incision is required around the bottom of the ear to remove excess skin.

In many instances, the necklift can be done on an outpatient basis. When the neck lift is performed on its own, it may be done so as an office-based procedure using local anesthesia. When performed in conjunction with a lower facelift, it is usually done in an outpatient surgery center under deep sedation or general anesthesia. Depending on the approach being used and how much work is being done, the surgery can take anywhere from one and a half to three hours to perform.

Recovery after the necklift takes place over a few weeks, during which time a compressive bandage is worn around the neck. Any pain that patients experience is well controlled with low-dose prescription medication. Swelling and bruising may be noticeable for up to ten days after the procedure. Patients are typically able to return to work within seven to ten days, or sooner for those not bothered by residual swelling.

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Q - What is a neck lift?
The neck lift, also known as submentoplasty, is a procedure that lifts and rejuvenates a sagging and/or full neck and jawline.

Q - Who is a good candidate for a neck lift?
The best candidates for a neck lift include healthy men and women who are bothered by unwanted sagging of the neck and/or jawline.

Q - Where is the neck lift procedure performed?
Neck lift surgery is usually performed in an outpatient surgery center, often times in conjunction with a lower facelift. Many direct neck lifts can be performed as an office-based procedure.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for a neck lift?
Most neck lifts involve deep sedation or general anesthesia. A straight local anesthesia can be used if a direct neck lift is being performed in the office setting.