Neck Lift

Are you bothered by loose muscles and excess skin or fat around your neck? Then you might want to consider getting a neck lift. Currently, neck lift is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures undergone by people to enhance their skin in the neck area. It comprises two procedures namely: cervicoplasty and platysmaplasty. Cervicoplasty is administered to remove excess skin, while platysmaplasty alters or removes neck muscles. Besides a neck lift, you may also undergo neck liposuction for the removal of excess fat or Botox injections.

Common concerns in the neck area
There are three common concerns in the neck area namely: Turkey wattle neck, excess fat, and too much skin. These problems determine which procedure is more appropriate for you. If you are planning to undergo a neck lift, it is important to consult with your doctor, explain your medical history, and discuss your major concerns. This will help you both decide which cosmetic procedure is most appropriate and safe for you.

Turkey Wattle - Turkey wattle or the appearance of neck bands is caused by loose or weakened muscles. This condition is corrected by platysmaplasty. In this procedure, the surgeon makes incisions behind the ears or under the chin to access the platysma (neck muscle) and then manipulate it. In some case, the surgeon may even find the need to remove some muscles.

Excess Fat - This problem is resolved through liposuction. In this procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision below the chin and then remove the excess fat. A surgeon usually starts with liposuction if his patient needs to undergo several neck lift procedures. Neck liposuction usually lasts up to one hour.

Too Much Skin - Excess skin in the neck area is removed through cervicoplasty. In this procedure, the surgeon will make incisions similar to those of platysmaplasty, trim some parts of the skin, and lift it into place. Cervicoplasty lasts between two and four hours, depending on your case.

Preparations for the cosmetic procedure
It is important to consult with your surgeon before undergoing a necklift. He will inform you of the necessary preparations, as well as the activities and medications you need to avoid. Take note that certain vitamins and medications can thin your blood, thus leading to increased bleeding. You must also stop smoking two weeks before the cosmetic surgery. Be sure that the following items are available at your home: ice packs, towels, gauze, thermometer, antibacterial ointment, and petroleum jelly.

Recovery from neck lift
The recovery for neck lift patients take time. But people can go back to work within 10 to 14 days after the cosmetic surgery. Of course, there are several things you need to do or avoid in order to recover fast. A healthy diet is important since it can help your body heal faster. As much as possible, avoid physical activities requiring great effort for at least three weeks. Being less active for a long period of time can be boring, but doing otherwise can lead to more serious consequences.

Possible complications of neck lift
Taking care of yourself well can help you avoid serious complications. After the surgery, you will have bruising and swelling that can last for a few days. You may also experience tingling or a feeling of tightness, as well as other sensations such as pulling or burning. Another possible complication is numbness. But you should not worry because these experiences are normal during the first few weeks after undergoing a neck lift. You may also be at risk of infection. If you see an unusual discharge from the wound such as pus or if you develop a fever, contact your doctor immediately and ask for the proper treatment.