Having loose, drooping neck skin is an undesirable trait that many people have to deal with as they get older. As we age, it is not uncommon for the skin around our jaw and neck to start sagging. However, this adds years to our age and does very little for our appearance since this problem also gives way to wrinkles and creases.

Necks that look like these are often called turkey wattle necks because of their resemblance to the neck of a turkey.

Loose skin in the neck area can also be a result of extreme weight loss. Many people who have lost a significant amount of weight often have excess skin that droops from their jaws and around their necks, and any remaining fatty deposits may be distributed unevenly. These issues can be major obstacles that keep you from reaching your aesthetic goals and even affect your self-esteem.

Considering all these, it’s no surprise that many people with this problem choose to undergo a procedure known as a neck lift. Here, we will see what a neck lift is, how it is performed, and who can benefit from a neck lift surgery.

What Is A Neck Lift?

A neck lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure where excess fat, tissue, and skin from the jaw and neck area are removed and the underlying muscles and the remaining skin are tightened or “lifted.” This helps to remove any signs of aging such as loose skin and wrinkles, and the result is a contoured, smooth, and youthful appearance, along with a more defined jawline.

A neck lift is also known as lower rhytidectomy, and it is often the best way of rejuvenating your neck area and getting rid of unwanted skin, stubborn fat, and any excess tissue. Unlike other body parts, the neck is less likely to react positively to anti-aging or other kinds of creams and lotions. Also, diets and exercise don’t work the way you would like them to either, so the neck lift is the best option.

What Is The Neck Lift Procedure Like?

A neck lift can either be a single, standalone procedure, or it could be accompanied by other procedures such as liposuction and facelift. This depends on the needs of the patient.

Usually, the surgeon administers an anesthetic before the surgery. There are two types of neck lifts you can benefit from depending on the look you are trying to achieve and the severity of your condition – traditional neck lift incision or limited incision neck lift.

For a traditional neck lift incision, the surgeon will make an incision that starts from your hairline, near the sideburn, goes down towards your ear, and stops at the posterior hair. The underlying tissue is then repositioned, and fat may be redistributed as required.

Usually, the platysma muscle is also tightened during the surgery. Once the necessary corrections are made, the skin is properly redraped around the treatment area and the incisions will be closed and bandaged.

A limited incision neck lift requires incisions only around your ears. However, this also means that the results won’t be as dramatic or obvious.

Who Is A Suitable Candidate For A Neck Lift?

People with excess skin or fat in their neck and jaw areas, usually around the age of 35 to 60 years are the most common candidates for a neck lift. You should be in good general health and free from any underlying conditions that may increase the chance of risk.

Potential patients should also have realistic expectations and be ready to follow any instructions provided by the plastic surgeon performing the surgery.

Contact Our Office

If you’re interested in learning more about the neck lift surgery and to find out if you’re a good candidate, make sure to contact The J. Parry Clinic for facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics.