Many men and women experience discomfort and unattractiveness resulting from excessive neck flesh, too much neck fat, or a “turkey neck” deformity, when skin is extremely loose and allows fat to collect underneath the chin. These conditions may not only be uncomfortable, they can affect a person’s self-confidence. One solution to this problem is a neck lift, a set of procedures that enhances the appearance of the neck by removing excess flesh or fat or by altering the neck muscles. A neck lift may be performed with a face lift, forehead lift, or eyelid surgery.
What is Involved With a Neck Lift?
A neck lift consists of one or more procedures to remove fat and flesh from the neck area as well as to alter the neck muscles if desired.
• Cervicoplasty
Cervicoplasty removes excess flesh from the neck area. The procedure involves making incisions on the upper part of the neck, trimming certain areas of the neck skin and lifting the remaining skin into the desired position. The affected skin is held in place with the use of stitches or tissue glue.
• Platysmaplasty
This procedure rearranges neck muscles to remove unsightly muscles and give the neck a smoother look. To gain access to the neck muscle (or platysma), the surgeon cuts incisions below the patient’s chin or behind the ears. Next, the surgeon modifies the muscle position and removes some of it if necessary, and sutures are used to secure the affected tissue.
• Liposuction
Liposuction may be required to remove excess fat from the neck area. Like the other procedures, liposuction requires an incision under the patient’s chin.
Risks and Complications
Most patients will have bruises and swelling along the neck, jaw, and ears that may last for many days. Many will also experience sensations of burning, pulling, tingling, numbness, or tightness. Risks from the surgery itself include possible infection as well as an allergic reaction to the anesthetic.
Recovery Period
For most patients, recovery takes 10 days to 2 weeks. For physically active patients, such as those engaged in sports, it is recommended that they refrain from activities for at least three weeks .
Before You Go
It is important to have an idea of the type of results you are looking for when considering a neck lift. It may be helpful to view photos of patients who have had the procedure done. Understanding your desired results is critical to a successful neck lift surgery and getting a slender, smooth neck.