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UT Southwestern Medical Center is nationally known for its expertise in cosmetic and plastic surgery, including surgical procedures such as neck lifts. Our plastic surgeons, nurses, and clinical teams work together to help patients seeking a neck lift achieve a refreshed appearance.
A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that addresses loose neck skin, a double chin, “jowls,” and other issues. It aims to reduce age-related wrinkling and creasing, resulting in a smoother and more defined neck profile.
Our plastic surgeons can perform a neck lift alone or at the same time as other facial procedures, such as a facelift, forehead lift, or chin lift. We use advanced techniques tailored to each patient's anatomy, skin elasticity, and goals.
Neck lift techniques include:
UT Southwestern’s experienced cosmetic and plastic surgeons are experts in advanced techniques for neck lifts. By conducting research studies, we are able to bring the latest advancements from the lab to the bedside for our patients.
We work closely with patients to understand their goals and provide treatment to help meet them.
A neck lift can benefit patients who have:
A neck lift can address multiple concerns, including:
Before surgery, patients should:
Before a neck lift, our specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
We'll discuss what to expect during the procedure, the patient's expectations, and special instructions to prepare for surgery. Before surgery, patients should:
We may also ask patients to stop taking certain supplements.
Before surgery, we will provide detailed instructions on what to do the night before and the morning of the procedure.
A neck lift is typically an outpatient procedure, with patients being able to go home the same day.
Our plastic surgeons provide anesthesia options when performing procedures, including:
A neck lift begins with the plastic surgeon making small incisions within the hairline on the back of the neck and behind the ears. Depending on the patient’s goals, one or more procedures are performed, such as:
Sometimes, a small incision is made under the chin to tighten the central muscles in the neck and use liposuction to remove unwanted fat.
In the final step of this procedure, the surgeon closes the incisions using sutures or skin adhesives. A drain tube is placed for most patients.
After neck lift surgery, patients can expect to receive medication to relieve pain or reduce the risk of infection for a few days after the procedure. They may also wear bandages or a compression garment or need temporary drains near the incisions.
Our care team will provide instructions about:
Neck lift recovery typically takes several weeks, but healing continues for months. During the initial weeks, patients may experience:
Recovery timelines vary, but most patients can expect to:
Swelling gradually goes away over several months. Patients typically see the final results of a neck lift three to six months after surgery.
A neck lift isn't permanent, but the results last for years. How long it lasts depends on:
Maintaining a stable weight and protecting the skin from sun exposure can help prolong the results of a neck lift.
Search for opportunities to participate in a clinical research study.
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