Neck Lift

What is a neck lift?

Neck lifts are cosmetic procedures which set out to remove wrinkles and fat deposits from the neck region thereby restoring smooth skin, a slender neckline, and a youthful appearance. The process requires surgery in all cases, but the nature of operations varies. Some neck lifts are partial - with far less invasive surgery. Others are "full" procedures, with extensive time in theatre, and the need for a general anaesthetic.

How does a neck lift work?

In a full neck lift, the process goes roughly as follows:

• Firstly, you will need to attend a consultation with your cosmetic surgeon. At this meeting, you can discuss your desired outcomes, whether you require a full or partial neck lift, and how to prepare for the operation. There may be a need for blood tests to ensure that you are a suitable candidate, and a special diet may be prescribed for the period prior to surgery.

• When the date for surgery arrives, a hospital admission will be required. Patients are then administered a general anaesthetic, and the procedure begins.

• The first step is to access the platysma muscle, which stretches around the neck. To achieve this, surgeons will make incisions behind the ears and underneath the chin. They can then manipulate this muscle, which tightens its fibres. This helps to remove bands or wrinkles from the neck.

• Secondly, surgeons will usually remove excess fat from the neck region. This is achieved via standard liposuction techniques.

• Finally, surgeons may elect to administer anti-wrinkle injections. These injections help to relax the platysma muscle, and may be given at a separate appointment.

• After that, the surgical wounds will be closed and sutured, and patients will be discharged from hospital within 1-2 days.

Are there different types of neck lift?

The process described above is known as a full neck lift, but it is not the only procedure available to address excess fat or neck wrinkles. A partial or mini neck lift may also be advised. In this case, the process is much less invasive and time consuming, but it still involves some degree of surgery.

Surgeons will generally administer a local anaesthetic and make a submental (under the chin) incision. After that, they may manipulate the platysma although liposuction is often the central part of the process. The incisions are far smaller than with standard neck lifts, and there should be much less bruising or inflammation.

Typically, mini neck lifts will be suitable for younger patients with less developed bands or wrinkles. If you need to remove deeper wrinkles or larger fat deposits, a full neck lift will almost certainly be preferable.Alternatively, patients may choose non-surgical treatments which resemble neck lifts. For example, thread lifting may be suggested. In this case, fibres are threaded below the skin, "lifting" it into a firmer, younger-looking appearance.

What should I expect?

When undergoing a neck lift, your expectations should be realistic. No cosmetic procedure is infallible, and surgeons are not miracle workers. However, modern techniques and skilled practitioners can achieve remarkable results, restoring youthful skin texture and appearance.

During and after surgery, expect some discomfort and changes to your lifestyle. This is part of almost any cosmetic procedure. In the case of a neck lift, you may need to change your diet to incorporate foods that are easier to swallow. And it's always advisable to eat a healthy, nutrient-rich diet following surgery to ensure your body has what it needs to heal sufficiently.

Don't expect instant results, either. Neck lifts take time to settle in, as muscles and skin adapt to their new position and the absence of fat deposits. The final results won't be apparent for 3-6 months, so don't worry if radical changes are not yet apparent. Be patient and give the procedure time.