Neck lifting (Platysmaplasty)
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the neck, providing more definition to the jawline. The method is also known as a platysmoplasty, as the platysma muscle of the neck may be altered or tightened during the procedure.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
Your doctor will review your medical history and advise you to stop certain medications such as blood thinners before the procedure. Smoking can prevent proper healing so you will have to quit a few weeks before and after the procedure. Make sure you have someone to escort you home after the procedure and be ready to take at least 2 weeks off work.
How is the neck lift procedure performed?
The procedure is performed in a hospital or advanced clinic under general anesthesia. It usually takes 1-2 hours to complete, and you will be allowed to leave the same day. However, your doctor may require that you stay overnight for further evaluation.
During the procedure, incisions are made under the chin or jawline and below or behind the ears. The skin is tightened and the excess trimmed. Some muscle tissue may be removed to tighten the muscles, and liposuction may be used to enhance the results.
Anti-wrinkle injections may be administered to relax specific parts of the platysma muscle, thereby eliminating banding in the neck. At the end of the procedure, the incisions are sutured and closed with bandages.
What happens after the procedure?
Following the procedure, a compression bandage is worn over the neck and immobilised for at least a week. However, you will need to engage in some activity to maintain circulation. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and itching, which is normal. An ice pack can help you with your symptoms.
After a week, gentle neck movements are permitted. You may notice some stiffness initially, but this gradually subsides. Neck strengthening exercises are recommended at 4-6 weeks. Your doctor will advise you on treatments or measures to minimise scarring. Complete healing usually takes a year.
Are there any risks associated with this procedure?
Cosmetic surgical procedure is a formal risky surgical operation
It is Not a “simple beauty treatment”
Like any other procedures, The risk and complications:
Common risks and complications:
- Bruising, swelling, bleeding, visible scaring, pain, treatment area hard / firm / lumpy / numbness / tightness, infection.
Rare risks and complications:
- Distortion, smile deformation, asymmetry, muscle, nerve injury, tissue necrosis
- Anaesthetic anaphylaxis reaction: rashes, difficulty breathing, cardiac arrest.