Neck Lift Surgery – Costs, Results, Risks, Recovery
No matter what playful name you try to give it, “turkey wattle” or “turkey neck” is anything but fun. The name given to the loose skin in the neck and chin area creates an instantly older appearance, often aging people before their time. The excess skin and fat that builds in the area becomes unsightly for many patients who may opt to have the area sculpted by Dr. Pamela Henderson to create a pleasant and youthful appearance.
What causes neck tissue to sag?
There are a number of factors that could be causing the tissue on your neck to appear loose or droopy. Natural aging, stress, genetics, and environmental conditions can all contribute to the natural laxity of the neck tissue. For some individuals, the neck is a natural place for excess fat to deposit during bouts of weight gain. These fat deposits, combined with relaxed muscle banding in the neck and chin can exaggerate the appearance of aging or less than favorable genetics.
Am I a good candidate for a neck lift?
If you are a nonsmoker of good health who is unhappy with the loose, sagging skin around their chin and neck, you may be a good candidate for a neck lift in Scottsdale. The procedure, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, may be combined with an upper rhytidectomy (facelift) if desired but is certainly not necessary. The neck lift procedure will create the youthful appearance of contoured skin that you desire, producing a more sculpted jaw line.
What can I expect during neck lift surgery?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Henderson will discuss your expectations for the surgery as well as the possibility of ancillary procedures that often accompany a neck lift such as dermal fillers, facial implants, and fat transfers. A meeting is scheduled two weeks prior to surgery so that pre-surgery care can be discussed. On the date of surgery, patients will be placed under local anesthesia along with intravenous sedation so that patients remain comfortable during surgery.
Small incisions are made behind the chin or below the ears. Liposuction may be performed to eliminate excess fat deposits and sutures may be used to improve muscle banding laxity. If needed, excess skin will be removed to create the desired contour that was discussed before surgery was initiated.
What is the recovery process like?
Dressings will be applied and patients are able to return home on the same day. They will return the next day to have the dressings removed and the areas examined and will be sent home with any necessary medications and instructions. Sutures will be removed after one week. Swelling and bruising will occur but typically dissipates within two weeks. Patients can typically return to work within two weeks, although strenuous activities such as exercise should be avoided for three weeks.
If you are interested in a neck lift in Scottsdale or any of the other procedures Dr. Henderson offers, contact New Image Plastic Surgery. Her highly trained staff can answer questions and schedule a consultation at your convenience. Call (480) 596-6886 today!