For people concerned about the look of their neck, their jawline, or their decollete, non-surgical treatments can only go so far. In some cases, for people with excess skin or conditions like neck banding, a neck lift or lower facelift might be the most effective option. When considering facial or neck surgery of this kind, it’s helpful and reassuring to know how your post-procedure recovery will be and how long you’ll need for downtime.

What is a Neck Lift?

Simply put, a neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to elevate sagging tissues under the jawline. this can be done under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of needed procedure and health of the patient. This is distinct from a facelift, although the procedures are complementary and a facelift actually does have more benefits for the lower region of the face and jaw than you might think.

Dr. Christopher Cote often explains that a facelift predominantly affects the mid to lower face, including the jawline. For people with minimal actual neck concerns, such as banding or excess fat, a facelift might be the preferred procedure for things like jowls or sagging skin along the jaw. So if you notice concerns right around this area, but not lower on the neck itself, you may or may not actually need a neck lift.

How is Neck Lift Surgery Performed?

A surgical neck lift traditionally involves incisions under the chin and around the ear to allow the doctor to lift sagging skin and fat and address banding platysma muscles. Excess fat can be redistributed or removed using liposuction techniques during this process. Neck lift surgery can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 3 hours depending on your needs and the surgical plan, for example whether you’re also having a facelift performed at the same time.

Neck Lift Recovery Timeline

When people ask about recovery timelines for cosmetic procedures, they’re usually hoping for as small a length of time as possible. For surgery, this is usually less than two weeks for a neck lift. However, FacesFirst offers multiple options for neck rejuvenation beyond a typical facelift. For the most minimal recovery timeline, we can offer local anesthesia or non-invasive procedures that can still yield excellent results.

Immediately After Surgery

After facial surgery, you should always keep the treated area elevated to reduce swelling and allow for fluid drainage around the incisions (if needed). You can help reduce discomfort and swelling additionally by using ice packs and following your doctor’s directions for wound care. The worst amount of discomfort peaks between 24-48 hours following your surgery. Any pain can be mediated with over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol.

1-Week Checkup

After one week, you’ll come back for an appointment at which time any external sutures will be removed by your doctor. By this point most people are feeling pretty much back to normal, but will still need to avoid strenuous activities.

After 2 Weeks

By this point in your recovery, your normal daily activities can be easily returned to. However, many neck lift patients might still be experiencing visible swelling that varies by age, hormones, and general health factors. If this is the case, continue using ice packs as needed and try to keep the area elevated.

Neck Rejuvenation Treatments in Denver and Lone Tree, CO

The neck lift recovery process can take some time away from your normal routine but isn’t as intimidating as people might think. If you’ve got concerns about the appearance of your lower jaw, neck, or face, trust the expert facial surgeons at FacesFirst. Our surgeons will help you figure out the right procedure for your schedule, budget, and concerns so you can feel great about your appearance. Call our office or contact us online today to get started.