A Neck Lift (Cervicoplasty), Platysmaplasty (Superficial Neck Muscle Repair) or Neck Liposuction rejuvenate the neck by reducing fullness as well as skin and muscle laxity (sagging) that can occur due to heredity or the effects of aging. A small or receding chin and abnormal position of the jaw or hyoid bone (in the neck) can further contribute to a poorly defined neckline, and may be corrected with the placement of a chin implant.
- Cervicoplasty is a true neck lift for those with poor skin elasticity and need for excess skin removal.
- Platysmaplasty means repair of the neck muscle (platysma) that can contribute to a poorly defined neckline and/or cause noticeable bands in the neck. The platysmaplasty can be done alone, or in conjunction with a neck lift.
- Neck Liposuction reduces fullness in the neck by suctioning out excess fatty deposits. This can be done on the whole neck, or simply beneath the chin, and can be combined with a cervicoplasty.
- Botox is sometimes used to improve the appearance of the neck by relaxing segments of the platysma (superficial neck muscle) that can cause the appearance of bands or neck fullness.
Age:
Neck liposuction can be performed starting in the 20s for localized areas of fat deposits. Neck lift surgery with skin removal and muscle repair is usually not needed until the 40s and later. Botox treatments for the neck are usually performed starting in the 30s or 40s.
Surgical Technique:
There are many different ways to achieve a more aesthetic neckline, determined by the individual’s anatomy and preferences, as outlined above. An isolated Neck Lift requires incisions in back of the ears similar to a facelift, with repositioning of the tissues and removal of excess skin.
Platysmaplasty (repair of a separated neck muscle) is performed through a 2-3 cm incision beneath the chin. Neck liposuction is carried out through a very small incision beneath the chin or in the crease behind the earlobes. The fat is then removed through a thin hollow tube called a canula. (This fat can then be used for Fat Transfer to another area of the face, if desired).
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Surgical Time and Recovery:
Neck Lift: 2-4 hours.
Platysmaplasty: 1 hour.
Neck Liposuction: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Botox: 5 – 10 minutes.
All neck procedures are performed on an outpatient basis with local and/or tumescent anesthesia and oral or IV sedation (except Botox which is performed with topical or no anesthesia). Post-operative discomfort is minimal and most patients return to light work after 1-2 weeks.
Related Procedures:
Neck rejuvenation procedures can be combined with a facelift, midface lift, browlift, eyelid lift, fat transfer, facial implants, and chemical peels or laser resurfacing.