What Should You Expect During a Neck Lift Procedure?
A neck lift procedure typically begins with a thorough consultation with your surgeon, who will evaluate your goals, examine your neck and face, and discuss the most appropriate surgical plan for you. Once the procedure is scheduled, you will be given instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, which may include fasting for a certain period before the operation and arranging for transportation on the day of the surgery. On the day of the neck lift, you will be administered anesthesia, either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the surgery and patient preferences.
During the surgery, the surgeon makes discreet incisions either behind the ears or under the chin, depending on the areas being addressed. Fat may be removed through liposuction, and the platysma muscle, which runs along the neck, is often tightened to improve its contour. Excess skin is then carefully excised, and the remaining skin is repositioned and tightened. The surgeon may also adjust the underlying structures for a more defined jawline. The entire procedure typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours, depending on its complexity. Afterward, the patient will be monitored in a recovery area before being discharged, typically on the same day or the following day, depending on the procedure's extent.