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Procedures > Facial Plastic Surgery Procedures > Necklift

Necklift

A necklift is a surgical procedure that is often used to restore a youthful, rested, and thinner look to individuals. For many people, the neck is the first area to show age. For people who have lost weight, an unfortunate side effect may be leftover, loose-hanging skin that has lost its elasticity. Whether it is band lines, excess skin, or fat, a necklift can address these issues and bring your neck back into shape, letting the youthful, thin, and well rested you shine through.

What can a necklift treat?

A necklift can improve visible signs of aging and excess skin on the neck. A necklift is best at solving such problems as:

  • Excess neck skin
  • Excess neck fat
  • Band lines
  • Fat that has fallen or is displaced
  • "Turkey Waddle" neck
  • Jowls due to the loss of muscle tone in the lower face
  • Double chin due to loose skin and excess fatty deposits making a person of normal weight appear to have a double chin

Rejuvenation procedures typically performed in conjunction with a necklift are a brow lift, to correct a sagging or deeply furrowed brow, and eyelid surgery to rejuvenate aging eyes.

Is a necklift right for me?

A necklift is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. Necklift surgery is a good option for you if:

  • You would not like to alter your facial appearance but would rather like your neck to appear younger, thinner, and refreshed
  • You are physically healthy
  • You do not smoke
  • You have a positive outlook and specific, but realistic goals, in mind for the improvement of your appearance

What happens during a necklift?

A necklift actually consists of three procedures- liposuction (to remove excess fat), platysmaplasty (to correct the banded appearance), and cervicoplasty (to remove excess skin). The type and number of procedures required for your necklift will depend on your specific needs.

  • Step 1 - Anesthesia

    Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago plastic surgeon, and your anesthesiologist, will recommend the best choice for you.

  • Step 2 - The Incision

    An incision is made under your chin and infront and behind the ears (or possibly in just one of these locations).

  • Step 3 - Remove Excess Fat (Liposuction)

    The fat deposits will be removed by inserting a small cannula, a hollow tube with an opening near its blunt end, beneath the skin. The cannula is used to break up the fat, and then remove it from the neck area.

  • Step 4- Correct Neck Banding (Platysmaplasty)

    A tiny instrument will be inserted into the neck and will either remove a portion of specific neck muscles or realign them. This is done to tighten the middle area of the neck. Dr. Weinzweig, your Chicago cosmetic surgeon, will permanently suture areas of the muscles in order to secure them in the best position.

  • Step 4- Remove Excess Skin and Redrape (Cervicoplasty)

    Excess skin will be removed and skin will be redraped to provide a youthful, firm neck appearance.

  • Step 4 - Close the Incision

    Sutures or skin adhesives may be used to close the incisions. Once healed, the incision lines from a necklift are well concealed.

  • Step 5 - See the Results

    Soon after the surgery you should notice the difference in the surface and the contour of your neckline. Final results will be apparent once the swelling subsides

    What should I expect during the recovery period?

    When your procedure is completed, a bandage may gently be placed around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. A thin tube may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin. We offer post-surgical make-up assistance to help you conceal bruising during your recovery period.

    You will be given specific instructions that may include: How to care for the surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health, and when to follow up with Dr. Weinzweig, your Chicago cosmetic surgeon.

    What are the risks of necklift surgery?

    All plastic surgery carries risks along with the many rewards as no surgery is risk free. Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago plastic surgeon, will explain the risks in your consultation so you can make an informed decision based on your unique situation.