Neck Lift
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Honolulu, HI
A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the neck. By tightening sagging skin, removing unwanted fat, and improving muscle definition, a neck lift reshapes the neck area to create a more youthful and elegant profile. (1) As we age, multiple factors can contribute to changes like sagging skin, fat deposits, or visible muscle bands, which may cause one to feel self-conscious about their appearance. (1)
Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery is one of Hawaii’s leading plastic surgery practices. Led by Dr. Robert Peterson, our practice has helped countless patients achieve their appearance goals and improve their quality of life through customized treatments, safety, and clear communication.
If you are seeking neck rejuvenation, then we encourage you to schedule a consultation. You can reach us by submitting our online contact form, or you can call our Honolulu office directly at (808) 944-8551 if you prefer.
Contents
About Neck Lifts
The skin on the neck is particularly delicate and thinner than the skin in other areas, making it more susceptible to signs of aging. (1) Factors such as weight fluctuations, sun exposure, and smoking can exacerbate these changes. The result is often a neck with excess skin, fat, and muscle bands, commonly referred to as “turkey neck.”
People are becoming increasingly aware of their looks for many reasons, and interest in neck lift procedures has risen as a result. Statistics show that neck lifts are among the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries, with thousands of individuals undergoing these procedures each year to achieve a refined, youthful neck silhouette. (2) Today, thanks to advancements in techniques, patients can achieve their desired look with minimal scarring. Through personal consultations with trained professionals such as Dr. Peterson, many clients realize they can significantly improve their neck aesthetics without having to undergo major surgery.
Benefits
A neck lift can offer patients numerous benefits, all of which enhance their body image and quality of life. Under the expert treatment of Dr. Peterson, our patients benefit through:
- Increased confidence: A rejuvenated neck can improve self-esteem and boost confidence levels.
- Youthful appearance: A neck lift contributes to a younger, lifted look that enhances one’s overall presence.
- Reduced “turkey neck:” Targeting sagging skin and muscle can dramatically reduce the appearance of turkey neck and banding.
- Improved jawline definition: Enhanced neck contours result in better-defined jawlines.
- Elimination of excess skin and wrinkles: The removal of lax skin and wrinkles rejuvenates the neck’s appearance.
- Reduction of double chin: Those bothered by fat deposits under the chin can benefit from submental liposuction as part of the procedure.
- Longer, elegant neck appearance: A neck lift can effectively elongate the neck, adding elegance to one’s profile.
- Concealed scarring: Incisions are strategically placed behind the ears or under the chin, minimizing visible scars.
Candidates
Ideal candidates for a neck lift are generally healthy individuals experiencing sagging skin, excess fat, or muscle banding beneath the neck. Typically, the best candidates are non-smokers (or those willing to temporarily refrain from nicotine usage) who possess realistic expectations about the outcomes they can achieve with a neck lift. Age is not a strict limitation, and a thorough evaluation during the consultation phase will help determine suitability for the procedure.
Personal Consultation
Scheduling a personal consultation with Dr. Peterson is a vital step in your rejuvenation journey. During this time, he will review your medical history, assess your neck’s condition, and discuss your aesthetic goals. Various factors, including skin elasticity, fat deposits, and muscle tone, will guide his recommendations for the best procedure to achieve your desired outcome.
The consultation also allows for an open discussion regarding alternatives and combination procedures that may enhance your natural beauty even further. Dr. Peterson will ensure you understand every aspect of the process, addressing any questions you may have.
Schedule your consultation today by submitting our online contact form or by calling our Honolulu office directly at (808) 944-8551.
Preparation
After establishing a treatment plan for your neck lift and scheduling your surgery date, you will receive preparation instructions. Following these closely will ensure a smooth procedure and optimize your results. Patients may be required to alter their medication intake, especially if they regularly take anything that can thin the blood. Patients who smoke or use nicotine will be asked to quit before and after treatment to enhance their healing abilities, and alcohol consumption should also be avoided.
Patients should prearrange transportation home from their procedure. If Dr. Peterson prescribes pain medications or antibiotics for your recovery, it is beneficial to obtain these before your procedure. Finally, please take time away from work or other responsibilities to recover without any burden. You may receive additional guidelines depending on your unique goals and medical history, so please read through your instructions carefully.
Procedure
The neck lift procedure involves several steps tailored to each individual. Most patients are placed under general anesthesia for this procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Peterson will carefully select and plan incisions. Incisions are made in locations that allow access to underlying neck structures while minimizing scar visibility, typically just below the chin and/or behind the ears. (2)
After making these incisions, Dr. Peterson will carefully tighten the underlying neck muscles and trim away excess tissue. Tightening the muscles of the neck helps to reduce the appearance of a “turkey neck” and creates a stronger foundation that lessens future skin sagging. (2) If applicable, Dr. Peterson can also remove fat from the neck with submental liposuction to sculpt stubborn deposits. Once all necessary corrections are made, Dr. Peterson will close incisions with sutures.
Facelift and Neck Lift
At Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery, our neck lift procedures are almost always paired with a facelift. A facelift, formally known as a rhytidectomy, is a procedure that reduces signs of facial aging. This is especially beneficial when combined with a neck lift, as the two structures age together. Combining these procedures can significantly reduce jowls, sunken cheeks, and define the jawline. (2)
Recovery
Post-procedure care is crucial for optimal healing. Patients can anticipate some swelling and bruising. Resting is crucial, and patients should elevate their heads while resting to help reduce swelling. Occasional light walks and cold compresses will also help this.
Dr. Peterson will provide you with recovery guidelines based on your unique procedure and medical history. Should you have any questions, he will be available to assist you. You will also be required to attend follow-up appointments so we can monitor your recovery progress and ensure that your results are manifesting as expected. Most patients return to light daily activities two weeks post-procedure, with more strenuous activities gradually introduced thereafter.
Corresponding Procedures
In addition to including a facelift in their neck lift treatment plan, many patients will also include a brow lift to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation. The brow lift targets sagging skin, fine lines, and deep furrows in the forehead. In these procedures, an incision is made behind the hairline, by the temples, or behind the ears, and excess skin is removed.
Cost of a Neck Lift in Honolulu
Neck lift cost will vary depending on the scale of the procedure, other procedures performed, patient goals, and other factors. After meeting with Dr. Peterson to discuss your goals, you will receive a comprehensive price quote that details all necessary expenses. Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery also offers financing options to help our patients access treatments.
Schedule your consultation today to begin exploring your neck lift options. If you have any further questions, please call our Honolulu office directly at (808) 944-8551.
FAQ
Does a neck lift help with jowls?
Yes, a neck lift can improve the appearance of jowls.
Are there non-surgical alternatives to a neck lift?
For patients with significant skin laxity or stubborn fat deposits, a surgical neck lift is often the most effective option. If you are interested in more subtle aesthetic treatments, please inquire about non-surgical treatments during your consultation.
Can a neck lift fix a double chin?
Yes, submental liposuction can be incorporated into a neck lift procedure to effectively reduce a ‘double chin’ or submental fullness, creating a more sculpted neck and defined jawline.
What is the ideal age for a neck lift?
While there is no specific age requirement for a neck lift, many patients opt for this surgery between their mid-thirties to sixties, according to their personal concerns related to neck appearance. Age is not a determining factor, and all patients interested in a neck lift should attend a personal consultation.
Is recovering from a neck lift painful?
Discomfort during neck lift recovery is typically minimal when patients follow post-surgery aftercare instructions provided to them by their surgeon. Recovery from a neck lift is typically low in pain intensity, with most patients experiencing tightness rather than severe discomfort.
References
- Pérez P, Hohman MH. Neck Rejuvenation. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562229/
- Alexander L, Patel BC. Platysmaplasty Facelift. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563291/