The ageing process sees a decline in collagen and elastin – natural proteins found in the skin that are responsible for keeping the skin plump and voluminous as well as retaining its ability to stretch and bounce back. As we age the structure of the skin becomes compromised, the production of these essential proteins depletes and our skin begins to sag. This is often noticeable around the jawline and under the chin causing a condition known as turkey neck. In addition to this, the muscles in the neck may start to weaken and offer much less support to facial tissues, localised fat and skin. A sagging neck can also be due to weight loss, where excess skin is left behind as a result.
2-6 WEEKS
GENEREAL ANAESTHETIC
RECOVERY
ANAESTHETIC
CAN BE PERMANENT
DURATION
1-2 HOURS
TIME TAKEN
TIME TAKEN
DURATION
ANAESTHETIC
RECOVERY
1-2 HOURS
CAN BE PERMANENT
GENERAL ANAESTHETIC
2-6 WEEKS
During a neck lift, your REAL surgeon will remove excess fat and skin from the jawline. This type of surgery that focuses on the removal of skin is known as cervicoplasty. Another popular more extensive technique is to remove the excess skin, but to also tighten and reshape the muscles in the neck so as to better support the overlying skin and give a more dramatic, toned appearance to the neck. This type of surgery is called platysmaplasty. Where excess fat is also an issue, these techniques can be used in conjunction with liposuction or fat removal. The appropriate technique to achieve the best results for you will be discussed and selected at your pre-operative assessment. Neck lift surgery may also be performed in combination with other surgeries such as a face lift to give a fully rejuvenated appearance to the face and neck.
At The REAL Clinic, a neck lift is carried out under general anaesthetic. We use total intravenous anaesthesia as it has greater potential benefits compared to other forms of anaesthesia. Intravenous anaesthesia is more rapid in onset, and elimination which allows for speedier recovery. Further benefits include; increased haemodynamic stability (stabilised blood flow), decreased risk of organ toxicity, decrease in surgical haemostasis (bleeding), reduced risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and improved, more predictable recovery.
There will be some bruising and swelling that will occur following neck lift surgery, and this should settle after a few weeks. Depending on the technique used during your surgery, it may take up to a few months for the healing process to settle. Scarring is a common side effect of neck lift surgery, although here at REAL your surgeon will make incisions that will be specifically positioned to help minimise visible scarring. You may also experience a feeling of tightness post surgery that will ease over time as the skin relaxes. As with all surgery, there is a risk of infection, asymmetry, nerve damage and bleeding.
You can typically allow around 2 – 3 weeks for the face to recover from neck lift surgery. It would be advisable if possible to rest during this period and refrain from any stress inducing activities including going to work and driving. You should not resume activities such as going to the gym or sports for around 6 weeks post surgery and steps toward increased activity levels should be taken slowly.
If you’re not sure what treatment you need, or you would just like a chat to get some advice, give our team a call or drop us a message and we’ll be happy to help.
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