What is neck lift surgery?

Neck lift surgery is an aesthetic surgical intervention used to rejuvenate the neck, where wrinkles and excess skin usually form and some may wish to correct. This operation is performed under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic with sedation.

Why would you have neck lift surgery?

Sagging and flaccidity of the skin are common with ageing. Ageing starts to visibly affect the neck area from around age 40 onwards, and, in some cases, as skin loses its firmness, this can become a source of insecurity for the patient. The results of neck lift surgery can be long-lasting and satisfactory, as they make the neck appear more youthful and smoother, while at the same time completely removing the flaccidity of the skin.

What does neck lift surgery involve?

To carry out this operation, an incision is made on the back of the neck, just under the start of hairline, and another incision behind each ear (measuring about 5 cm). Then, through these incisions, the surgeon separates the skin from the neck muscles, tightening it to eliminate wrinkles, and removes the excess skin.

How to prepare for neck lift surgery

The preparation for neck lift surgery is similar to that of face lift surgery. Patients who smoke should avoid smoking for 1 or 2 months before the operation, and they should also eat light meals in the days before the surgery, avoiding saturated fats and alcohol. It is possible that the specialist surgeon may recommend also avoiding the use of painkillers containing acetylsalicylic acid and blood-thinning medicines in general.

Post-operative care

After the neck lift surgery, the patient may have inflammation and oedemas that will remain for several days, during which time it is recommended that they sleep with their head and neck elevated. After the operation, a bandage will be applied which may be removed after 24 hours, replacing it with a support for at least 2 weeks. The final results can be seen after 3 to 6 months.