What is a neck lift?
One of the telltale signs of aging is loss of definition of the neck and the appearance of the much-despised “turkey gobble” or the “double chin.” This happens to varying degrees to nearly everyone. The superficial muscles of the neck loosen over time and fat deposition increases in this region. The end result is a blunting of the angle between the chin and neck and loss of definition of the jawline.
One of the most gratifying procedures for both men and women is to surgically restore this angle (called the cervicomental angle) which instantly and subtly re-creates a very youthful appearance.
A neck lift can be performed alone or in combination with other facial procedures such as a facelift, brow lift, eyelid surgery, or chin or cheek augmentation. In some instances, liposuction of the neck can be combined as well to improve definition.
How is a neck lift performed?
The overall goal of a neck lift is to tighten the central muscles of the neck (called platysmal bands) and resuspend the hammock of the neck, thereby re-creating the lost angle between the chin and neck. In order to accomplish this, an incision is placed along the border of the hair bearing scalp behind the ears.
This incision is continuous with that of a facelift, if performed together. Excess skin is taken out using this incision and the edges of these superficial neck muscles are tightened simultaneously. A separate incision is sometimes placed underneath the chin in order to bring together the two vertical neck bands which are characteristic of the aging neck. Liposuction can be performed through these incisions as well without the need for additional counterincisions.
In some individuals, there may be a soft tissue prominence underneath the jaw which represents the drooping salivary glands. If present, these glands will need to be resuspended during this procedure in order to restore the natural jawline. Sometimes, these glands may be excised completely, if the drooping is severe.
Slight variations of this general technique can be performed as necessary on specific patients. Dr. Panossian will individualize the technique, if it is indicated and if it is consistent with patient goals.
Recovery
How is the recovery from Neck Lift?
Following a neck lift, a bulky supportive dressing or an elastic facial garment will be applied to minimize bruising and swelling. A small thin tube may be used to temporarily drain any fluid collections underneath the skin. This is typically removed the following day in the doctor’s office. Patients are then allowed to shower. Care is taken not to rub aggressively over the neck or the incisions for up to two weeks. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities including sports, exercise, and heavy lifting for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. Most patients typically return to work in 10 to 14 days. Makeup may be used as necessary to conceal any residual bruising.
Risks and Complications
What are the risks and complications of a Neck Lift?
The risks of a neck lift include bleeding, infection, difficulties with anesthesia, and unfavorable scarring. In addition, some patients may complain of a sensation of tightness in the neck that is temporary. It is rare to cause difficulties with swallowing or breathing following a neck lift. Also, in rare circumstances, there may be over- or undercorrection. It is imperative for patients to follow Dr. Panossian’s pre- and postoperative instructions in order to avoid complications. His staff is available at all times to answer questions.
Why choose Dr Panossian
- He received his medical education at Tufts University School of Medicine.
- Graduated at the top of his class at UCLA, receiving Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude honors.
- Was accepted into an elite combined general surgery and plastic surgery residency at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
- Completed subspecialty training in craniofacial surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and Harvard Medical School.
- Was mentored by Dr. Ron Zuker in the practice of facial paralysis reconstruction. This prestigious fellowship position was available to only one surgeon in the United States.
- Is affiliated with various charitable and educational organizations, including Operation Smile and Mending Kids.
- Is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the highly selective American Association of Plastic Surgeons, reserved for only a select group of individuals nationally who have demonstrated excellence in academic plastic surgery.
- Holds memberships in several other professional societies including the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery.
- He serves on the Board of Directors for Mending Kids and the Gondobay Manga Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the improvement of lives in Sierra Leone.
- Has been nominated by his peers annually since 2012 as a “Super Doctor.”
- Served as an expert medical consultant and appeared on The Doctors, Grey’s Anatomy, and Nip/Tuck.
- Has been featured as “Top Doctor” in US News and World Report, Pasadena Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Lift
If you live near Pasadena, CA, Dr. Panossian offers neck lift among its services, and is conveniently located at 39 Congress St., Suite 402 Pasadena, CA 91105
Last modified by Dr. Andre Panossian
