Necklift

Rejuvenation of the aging neck is becoming a frequently sought after procedure.  A youthful neck is defined by a sharp angle beneath the chin and jaw extending down into the neck.  Aging creates a more obtuse angle at this region secondary to sagging of the skin, fat accumulation beneath the skin and muscle, and laxity of the muscles which support the neckline. 

In those patient where there is not a considerable amount of excess skin an isolated necklift , without a facelift, can be performed. 

A necklift procedure may be performed under local or general anesthesia.  Small incisions are created in a natural skin crease beneath the chin and behind the ear lobes.  Through these incisions the skin is elevated and liposuction cannulas are passed to remove the appropriate amount of fat.  If necessary, the muscles which support the neckline can be smoothed and reinforced to prevent the sagging from reoccurring.

Sometimes a chin implant is recommended to augment a deficient jawline which enhances the overall surgical result.

A dressing, which maintains the desired position of the newly sculpted neck, is applied but is removed after 4-5 days.  You will be asked to where a removable dressing as much as possible for a couple of weeks following surgery, but you should be able to return to work after about a week.

Copyright@2001 The Washington Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center