Neck Lift on Long Island, NY

Offices in Nassau County, NY

The neck is an often-overlooked element of our overall appearance. When it is noticed, it’s usually not for the reasons we would hope. It is not unusual for a facelift patient to look in the mirror and marvel at their surgical result while also suddenly perceiving that the loose, time-worn appearance of the neck doesn’t match the tone and texture of the face.

Neck lift is the solution. Depending on the particular technique used, neck lift can tighten skin and muscles, erase bands and prevent or reverse formation of the dreaded “turkey wattle.” Neck lift is a popular option for patients whose skin lacks flexibility and has developed visible folds of skin as a result of weight loss or natural aging.

How is Neck Lift Performed?

There is not one single surgical technique used in neck lift; rather, the procedure can be customized to each patient and his or her individual needs. Liposuction is used to remove fat from the neck. During this process, Dr. Funt creates a small incision beneath the chin to insert a narrow surgical instrument known as a cannula, which is used to suction away excess fat cells. This is the least invasive approach and ideal for targeting pockets of fat that have the effect of creating an uneven, bloated look.

Cervicoplasty

Cervicoplasty involves removal and lifting of neck skin. Incisions for this procedure are made behind the ears as well as under the chin; the newly taut skin will be secured by sutures.

Platysmaplasty

Platysmaplasty targets neck muscles that have begun to sag, creating noticeable horizontal bands across the neck. The surgical technique involves tightening, repositioning and sometimes partial removal of neck muscles, and the use of sutures to maintain this revitalized appearance. The good news is that these various surgical techniques can often be performed endoscopically, as an outpatient procedure and using local anesthetic.

Neck Lift Recovery

A compression garment worn around the neck for at least two weeks will help ensure optimal healing. Your neck will be swollen and slightly bruised for about 10 days after surgery, and you may feel some numbness for several weeks. As with facelift, your final result takes time. Within three to six months, you should be able to admire the results of neck lift.

Are There Non-Surgical Alternatives to Consider?

In recent years a number of noninvasive treatments have become available to treat issues of neck laxity. Botox, which has been available for decades, is sometimes used to address the appearance of bands on the neck. Kybella injections are an increasingly popular way to remove moderate amounts of fat from under the chin. Varying degrees of neck lifting can sometimes also be achieved with dermal fillers, radiofrequency energy treatments, ultrasound, intense pulsed light (IPL) or the use of advanced fraxel lasers.

What Are the Benefits of Neck Lift?

Neck lift offers several aesthetic and psychological benefits, including:

• Improved Contour: The procedure tightens sagging skin and removes excess fat, resulting in a smoother, more defined neck and jawline.
• Youthful Appearance: By addressing signs of aging such as wrinkles and creases, a neck lift can rejuvenate the lower face and neck area, often making a patient look years younger.
• Reduced Double Chin: For many, a neck lift can significantly reduce or eliminate the appearance of a double chin, enhancing the overall profile.
• Long-lasting Results: Compared to non-surgical treatments, a neck lift provides more dramatic and enduring results.
• Boosted Confidence: The aesthetic improvements from a neck lift often lead to increased self-esteem and confidence in social or professional settings.

Who Is a Candidate for Neck Lift?

Candidates for neck lift surgery typically include individuals who:

• Have Visible Aging Signs: Those with loose skin, prominent bands in the neck, or a “turkey wattle” appearance are ideal candidates.
• Are Physically Healthy: Good candidates should not have medical conditions that impair healing or increase the risk of surgery.
• Have Realistic Expectations: Understanding the potential outcomes and limitations of the surgery is crucial.
• Do Not Smoke: Smoking can significantly impair the healing process, so surgeons generally require patients to quit smoking several weeks before and after the surgery.
• Are at a Stable Weight: Significant weight fluctuations after the procedure can alter the results, so it’s important to maintain a stable weight.

What Is the Best Age for Neck Lift?

There is no definitive “best” age for neck lift as the timing depends more on individual needs and skin conditions than on age alone. Generally, people start to consider a neck lift in their 40s to 60s when signs of aging, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and decreased elasticity, become more prominent. However, the procedure can benefit adults of any age who experience significant weight loss or have hereditary conditions that cause them to seek improvements earlier.

How Much Does Neck Lift Cost?

The cost of neck lift can vary widely depending on the extent of aging present on the neck and the specific techniques that Dr. Funt utilizes to improve the neck’s contours. The total cost includes surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and facility costs. During a consultation with Dr. Funt, he can devise a customized surgical plan and provide a quote so that you know what to expect upfront. Financing options are available. 

How Painful Is Neck Lift Surgery?

Neck lift surgery is generally well tolerated, thanks to the use of anesthesia. Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort, which can be managed effectively with prescription pain medication. The pain is usually most notable in the first few days after surgery and subsides significantly as healing progresses. Patients often describe the discomfort as a tight or pulling sensation in the neck area, which then diminishes over time.

How Long Do Neck Lift Results Last?

The results of neck lift are long-lasting but not permanent. Most patients can expect to enjoy their new contour for 10 or more years, depending on their skin quality, age, and lifestyle choices. Factors such as significant weight fluctuations, sun exposure, and smoking can accelerate the aging process and may affect the longevity of the results. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including proper skincare and sun protection, can help prolong the effects of the surgery.