Neck Lift in Kirkland, Bellevue & Seattle
Neck Lift from Experienced Seattle Area Cosmetic Surgeons
Our bodies can show signs of aging quickly and without warning. The face is where the first visible signs of aging begin to take shape. While many of us become proactive in combating those facial signs, it is important to remember that the neck area can also display signs of maturity.
Just like other parts of the body, the neck can exhibit signs of aging, which include wrinkling, loose skin and sagging. Additionally, fat deposits can begin to grow underneath the chin, causing a “double chin” to appear.
So, if you are looking to reduce and correct the signs of aging on your neck, it’s time to discuss a neck lift with your Kirkland, WA cosmetic surgeons at NW Face & Body.
Benefits of Your Neck Lift
As we age, the delicate skin of the neck becomes increasingly vulnerable to the effects of aging, genetics and environmental aspects. Additionally, this highly visible area can resist diet and exercises to stay taut and tight. Unfortunately, many patients experience softening of the muscles, pronounced creases and skin laxity on the neck. With the decision to have a neck lift, comes an array of benefits. Some of the advantages include:
- A reduction of excess skin
- The minimization of fine lines and wrinkles
- Tightened underlying muscles
- A finely contoured jawline and chin and more.
With care, compassion and a high level of skill, your NW Face & Body medical team will not only discuss the benefits of a neck lift for you, but the details and specifics of your particular procedure, that will ensure a neck that is more appealing and youthful.
Depending upon your goals and your needs, you may also benefit from additional enhancements. For example, many patients couple facial liposuction with a neck lift. You may also choose other cosmetic improvements, giving you a rejuvenated and refreshed facial and neck area. For example, a brow lift, face-lift or even dermal fillers may provide the perfect complement to your neck lift.
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift is a cosmetic technique that helps to enhance a person’s neck. The procedure involves creating a smoother, streamlined, elegant and even youthful neck, while making incisions to tighten the skin and muscles.
What happens during my initial consultation for a neck lift?
At NW Face & Body, we will welcome you in our warm and professional setting. Your consultation will begin with a request from us, for your complete medical history. Secondly, we will then ask you what your specific goals and desires are. Thirdly, we will take images of your face and neck, and discuss their structures. We will also provide specific detail about the neck lift surgery we propose. For example, we will show you where incisions will be made, as well as how many will be needed for your desired results. We will also answer your questions as well as address any concerns that you may have. If you have photographs, bring them! We would love to see them. Your consultation is a way for us to get to know you, as well as you getting to know us. It’s also an opportunity for you to come to know the specifics of your neck lift.
Is there a difference between a neck lift and a Platysmaplasty?
While both a neck lift and a Platysmaplasty help to enhance a neck, there is a distinct difference between both procedures. A neck lift addresses such issues as skin laxity and muscle laxity. A Platysmaplasty is more a reconstructive procedure that addresses issues such as a double chin. In many instances a neck lift can be combined with a Platysmaplasty. Your greater Seattle cosmetic surgeons at NW Face & Body can provide additional information about both techniques and answer all of the questions you have.
What preparations are needed for my neck lift surgery?
In preparation for your neck lift procedure, it is important to:
- Receive all medical tests and evaluations
- Take or cease taking certain medications, based upon your doctor’s recommendations and instructions.
- Cease smoking immediately, if you are a smoker.
Before your surgery, you will also be supplied with:
- Specific instructions the evening before your surgery
Information about the anesthesia that will be agreed upon for your neck lift
- Follow up instructions
- Post-operative care
What will happen during my neck lift procedure?
Your neck lift procedure is generally performed as an outpatient procedure. The following are the general steps of a typical neck lift procedure:
- Anesthesia- Medications will be administered to you for your comfort, during your neck lift procedure. Most patients choose between general anesthesia and intravenous sedation. As your trusted Bellevue WA neck lift medical team, we will recommend the best choice for you, based upon your health history and needs.
- Incisions- Depending upon the desired results and the complexity of the procedure, incisions will be made that will ensure positive results. Traditionally, a doctor will begin the neck lift procedure with an incision that begins in the hairline at the sideburn. That incision will then continue down and circle around the ear, ending at the posterior hair. Additionally, another incision under the chin may be required for liposuction.
- Incision Closures- After the incisions have been made, excess fat and tissue have been removed and the neck has been sculpted, the incisions will be closed. Skin glue or sutures may be used to hold the incisions together. Your sutures may either dissolve, or be removed during a follow-up visit, a few days after your neck lift procedure. Incision lines are usually well-concealed and will dissolve over time, with proper care.
- Recovery & Results- After your neck lift, results can be seen in a relatively short amount of time and recovery will take place. It is important to follow our instructions ensuring complete and successful recovery, as well as optimal results. For any complications, issues or concerns, contact us immediately for an appointment.
How long does a neck lift surgery last?
Typically, a neck lift is a procedure that can take up to three hours. If there are other procedures you have elected to combine with your neck lift, then there will be a considerable increase in time. You neck lift surgery time will depend upon the goals outlined by you and your NW Face & Body cosmetic surgeon.
How long will the results from my neck lift last?
Generally, the results from a neck lift can last between 10 and 20 years. For each individual, the treatment’s results will vary. It is important to exercise and obtain good nutrition for your health and vitality. A good skin care regimen for long lasting results will also help.
What are the risks?
As with any surgery, there are risks; however, in our experiences with neck lifts, complications have been extremely rare.
Will there be any scars after my neck lift?
Although scars may appear after the neck lift procedure, they will disappear over time. Your medical team at NW Face & Body will provide you with specific directives for post-care, which will include treatment for scars.
Will there be bruises and unsightly marks? How soon will they fade?
With any surgery, there are bruises; such is the case with your neck lift. In addition to bruises, you may also experience swelling. You will be advised to rest, relax and take the prescribed medications for your bruises and swelling. We will also prescribe medications and supplements for pain and other discomfort, should you need them.
How long is recovery time after my neck lift?
Although each patient will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, the typical recovery time for a neck lift is between one and two months. Many doctors recommend patients take between two and three weeks off from work, ensuring that bruising and swelling are remedied and resolved. It is also important to pause from a daily work regimen to make time for follow-up care.
Most neck lift patients can return to their normal lives and activities after four weeks, following surgery. As your trusted Seattle area neck lift cosmetic surgeons, we will give you specific guidelines and a complete recovery schedule for you to follow.
How will I know if I am a good candidate for a neck lift?
You are a viable candidate for a neck lift if you:
- Are in optimal health
- Do not smoke
- Have a positive outlook and realistic goals about the procedure
- Can commitment to full recovery and healing after the neck lift
How soon will I be able to see the results of my neck lift procedure?
With proper care and rest, you should begin to see results of your neck lift one to two weeks after your surgery. Your swelling and bruising will last for a week following your surgery, but will begin to subside and eventually disappear as time progresses.
How much will my neck lift cost?
The price of a neck lift will vary from patient to patient. Your plastic surgery procedure will last for years, so consider it an investment in your well-being. Before your procedure, all costs will be outlined for you.