Neck Lift Surgery by Anthony MacQuillan
A Neck Lift, also known as Platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of your neck and jawline.
As you age, the skin on your neck may start to sag and lose its elasticity, or you may notice excess fat accumulating under your chin. These changes can alter your facial profile and may not always reflect the vitality and energy you feel. This is where a Neck Lift comes in – it’s a solution aimed at restoring a more defined and pleasing neck contour.
The decision to undergo a Neck Lift is a personal one and can be influenced by various factors. It’s important to understand what the procedure involves, who it’s suitable for, its benefits, the types involved, how it’s performed, the recovery process, and the potential risks.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan can provide information about your surgical options, helping you make an informed decision about this procedure.
What is a Neck Lift?
A Neck Lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the neck and jawline. The procedure involves removing excess skin, tightening underlying muscles, and sometimes removing or altering neck fat.
This process can significantly enhance the neck’s contour, leading to a more refined and balanced facial appearance.
The procedure is often sought by individuals who are unhappy with sagging skin, excess fat, or the lack of definition in their neck area. A Neck Lift can be performed alone or in conjunction with other facial surgeries such as a Facelift, Liposuction, or Chin Augmentation to achieve facial rejuvenation.
2-4 Hours
Local or General
Usually preformed as an outpatient procedure (no overnight stay required)
4-8 weeks
While individual recovery experiences may vary, most patients can expect to see significant improvement in their appearance within a few weeks to months after a Neck Lift.
Benefits of the Neck Lift Procedure
The benefits of undergoing a Neck Lift include:
- Improved Contour: The procedure creates a more defined neck and jawline.
- Reduced Sagging: Removal of excess skin eliminates sagging and creates a tighter, smoother neck.
- Fat Reduction: Excess fat can be removed or redistributed, reducing the appearance of a double chin.
- Enhanced Profile: The surgery can improve your side profile, giving you a more youthful and balanced appearance.
- Increased Wardrobe Options: Some find that after a Neck Lift, they feel more comfortable wearing certain styles of clothing, like open necklines.
The benefits extend beyond physical appearance, often having a positive impact on how individuals feel about themselves.
Who Needs a Neck Lift?
Candidates for a Neck Lift are those who are experiencing signs of ageing in the neck area, such as:
- Sagging skin: Loss of skin elasticity resulting in a droopy appearance.
- Excess fat: Accumulation of fat under the chin and around the neck.
- Muscle banding: The appearance of abnormal contours due to muscle laxity.
Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, or willing to quit smoking, as smoking can hinder the healing process. It’s also important that candidates have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.
A neck lift can enhance your appearance and may improve your profile, but it won’t fundamentally change your overall look.
Types of Neck Lift Procedures
Traditional Neck Lift
A Traditional Neck Lift is a surgical procedure aimed at tightening and rejuvenating the neck area. It involves making incisions behind the ears and sometimes under the chin to remove excess skin and fat, tighten underlying muscles, and reposition tissues.
The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 2 to 4 hours.
Recovery involves swelling and bruising, with most patients returning to light activities within a few weeks. Full results may take several months to manifest, but the procedure can provide long-lasting improvements in neck contour and appearance.
Limited Incision Neck Lift
A Limited Incision Neck Lift is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to address mild to moderate signs of aging in the neck area. It involves making small incisions typically behind the ears or under the chin to tighten and contour the neck tissues. This technique is ideal for patients with less extensive neck laxity and requires less downtime compared to a Traditional Neck Lift.
While results may not be as dramatic as with a Traditional Neck Lift, the limited incision technique can still provide noticeable improvements in neck contour and definition.
Neck Liposuction
Neck Liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at removing excess fat deposits from the neck area to improve contour and definition. Using small incisions, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted to suction out unwanted fat cells. This procedure is ideal for patients with localised fat deposits and minimal skin laxity in the neck region. Recovery typically involves minimal downtime, with swelling and bruising resolving within a few weeks. Neck Liposuction can provide noticeable improvements in neck contour and definition, enhancing overall facial harmony and appearance.
How is a Neck Lift Performed?
The Neck Lift procedure varies depending on the technique used, but generally, it involves the following steps:
- Anaesthesia: The choice between general anaesthesia and intravenous sedation will be based on your specific case and Anthony’s recommendation. General anaesthesia means you’ll be asleep during the procedure, while intravenous sedation will keep you relaxed but awake. Your medical history and any allergies will be reviewed to ensure the safest option is chosen.
- Incisions: The location and length of incisions depend on the extent of changes needed in your neck. Incisions under the chin are common for removing or redistributing fat. Incisions around the ears are made when there’s a need to address sagging skin and muscle tightening. These incisions are planned to be as inconspicuous as possible, often hidden in natural skin creases or the hairline.
- Reshaping and Tightening: Excess fat in the neck can be removed through liposuction or surgically cut out. The platysma muscle, which can create banding in the neck, is often tightened to provide a smoother contour. This step is crucial for defining the neck and jawline, giving a more youthful appearance.
- Skin Redraping. After reshaping, the skin is carefully laid back over the new contours. This step removes any loose or sagging skin, resulting in a smoother, tighter neck appearance.
- Closing Incisions. Sutures or skin adhesives are used to close the incisions. The technique used for closure can affect scarring, so Anthony will use methods that minimise visible scars. Proper care of these incision sites post-surgery is important for healing and reducing scar visibility.
- Procedure Duration and Setting: The surgery takes a few hours but can vary depending on the complexity and whether other procedures are done simultaneously. Most Neck Lift procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.
How Anthony performs Neck Lift surgery
The issues that patients frequently seek help for relate to increased volume beneath the chin (usually as a result of subcutaneous fat deposition or enlargement of the digastric muscles), loosening of the edges of the platysma muscles that run from the chin to the collar bones producing parallel vertical lines (known as bands) running from the chin down the front of the neck and excess skin over the front of the neck (or a combination of these problems).
The operation directly removes all excess fat from the neck leaving only a thin layer behind, attached to the skin, to provide a smooth surface once the rest has been resected. Once this has been performed the underlying platysma muscle is examined.
Often the free medial or inner edges of the muscle have become loose and need tightening. Beneath the platysma is another layer of fat and 2 additional muscles (called the digastric muscles) which can contribute to fullness under the chin. If needed this fat is removed and the muscles debulked so that any residual fullness under the jaw is addressed.
The platysma muscle is then sewn together in the midline (which looks a bit like a corset and is known as a corset platysmaplasty) providing sheet-like muscular sling that will hold the soft tissue of the neck in place.
Because of the way the surgery directly sculpts of fat of the neck it is also possible to remove the jowls drooping down below the jawline as part of the operation, enhancing the final outcome. Any redundant skin is gathered up behind the ears and excised with the scars lying in the crease behind.
The specific details of your Neck Lift procedure may vary depending on your individual needs and Anthony’s approach. It’s important to have a thorough consultation to understand exactly what your procedure will involve.
Recovery after a Neck Lift Procedure
Recovery varies by individual and the extent of the surgery, but generally includes:
- Downtime: Expect to take it easy for about two weeks. This period allows your body to start the healing process effectively. During this time, focus on rest and avoid any activity that could strain your neck or facial area. Gentle walks are encouraged to promote blood circulation but avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are a normal part of the healing process. They are your body’s way of responding to the surgery. To reduce swelling, keep your head elevated, even while sleeping. This can be done using extra pillows. Applying cold compresses can also help manage swelling, but make sure to follow Anthony’s guidance on this.
- Post-operative Care: You’ll likely need to wear a compression garment. This helps to reduce swelling and supports the new contours of your neck. Follow Anthony’s instructions on wound care to avoid infection and promote healing. Taking prescribed medications is important. This includes pain relievers and possibly antibiotics. Attend all follow-up appointments. These are essential to monitor your healing and address any concerns promptly.
- Limited Activity: Refrain from any activities that could put stress on your neck. This includes certain exercises and possibly some types of work or household chores. Follow Anthony’s specific guidelines about when it’s safe to resume various types of activities. Pay attention to your body. If an activity causes discomfort or strain in the neck area, stop and rest.
How Much Is Neck Lift Surgery in the UK?
The cost of Neck Lift surgery in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the specific type of Neck Lift procedure chosen, the surgeon’s experience and expertise and any additional services or procedures included in the treatment plan.
To obtain an accurate price quote for Neck Lift surgery tailored to your needs, it’s recommended to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess your neck anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and provide you with a personalized treatment plan, including a detailed cost breakdown.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
Can I combine a Neck Lift with other facial surgeries?
Yes, it’s common to combine a Neck Lift with other procedures like a Facelift, Brow Lift, or Eyelid surgery. This can provide a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Anthony will advise on what combination is best for your needs.
How long do the results of a Neck Lift last?
The results of a Neck Lift are long-lasting but not permanent. Aging will continue, but the improved contours should remain for many years. The longevity of the results depends on factors like your skin quality and lifestyle.
Will a Neck Lift help reduce wrinkles?
A Neck Lift primarily addresses sagging skin and excess fat. It can reduce the appearance of some wrinkles and creases, but it’s not specifically designed to eliminate fine lines or deep wrinkles. Other treatments like laser therapy or injectables might be recommended for wrinkles.
Is there a non-surgical alternative to a Neck Lift?
Yes, there are non-surgical options such as neuromodulator injections, fillers, laser treatments, and Ultherapy. These can provide temporary improvements in skin tightness and wrinkles but are generally less dramatic and shorter-lasting compared to a surgical Neck Lift.
What are the Risks of Neck Lift?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved, which may include:
- Scarring: While Anthony aims to make incisions in less visible areas, such as under the chin or behind the ears, some scarring is inevitable. The appearance of scars can vary based on your body’s healing process. Following your surgeon’s aftercare advice can help minimise scarring.
- Infection and Bleeding: These are standard risks with any surgical procedure. Your surgical team will take steps to minimise the risk of infection during and after your surgery. You’ll likely receive instructions on how to care for your incisions to prevent infection. Signs of infection include redness, unusual swelling, and discharge from the incision sites.
- Nerve Injury: Although rare, there’s a possibility of nerve damage during a Neck Lift. This can affect sensation in the skin or muscle movement. Most nerve injuries are temporary, but there is a small risk of permanent damage.
- Asymmetry: Perfect symmetry is not always achievable. There might be minor differences in the contour or shape of your neck on each side. Anthony will aim to achieve the best possible symmetry during the procedure.
- Anaesthesia Risks: General anaesthesia, commonly used in neck lifts, carries its own risks like any medical procedure. These include reactions to anaesthesia, breathing difficulties, and changes in blood pressure. Your medical history and any known allergies will be thoroughly reviewed to minimise these risks.
It’s crucial to have an open discussion with Anthony about these risks to understand their likelihood and the steps taken to mitigate them. Understanding these risks will help you make a well-informed decision about undergoing a Neck Lift procedure.
Medical References about Neck Lift
- What questions should I ask my plastic surgeon about neck lift surgery? – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- What should I expect during my neck lift recovery? – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- What To Know About Neck Lift Surgery – Medical News Today
- Neck Lift Surgery – WebMD
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
Pleased As Punch !
I started this journey after seeing a video of myself , took me a year after I first saw my lovely Doctor to finally go for it ! The procedure was well explained, recovery time for swelling to go tooK a bit more time than I expected but we all heal at different rates … The outcome Is I have a jawline and cheeks as youthful as my 35 year old daughter! Really pleased and have my confidence back !
Delighted with my results
Around Christmas time last year I decided to consult with Mr MacQuillan (with whom I previously had highly successful surgery) to discuss improvements to be made to an old scar on my neck as a result of prior spinal surgery. Following a positive consultation in which he assured me he surgery would achieve the results I required I decided to “go ahead”. the surgery removed a great deal of excess skin and tissue, resulting in a major improvement to both my neck and lower face. I underwent this surgery at St Joseph’s hospital in Newport and was extremely well cared for by the staff. Eight months following surgery I am still delighted with the results and I can certainly recommend this highly talented and skilled surgeon who has a charming and highly professional manner
I was frightened of doing it but I am so glad I did
I had a deep plane facelift, neck lift and fat taken from my stomach and put into my face to give it volume again. Anthony and his assistant Lucy were amazing and really kept me calm during and after the procedure. Thank you so much, I are delighted with what you have done.
What an amazing surgeon!
I had been unhappy about my neck for a few years but in the summer of 2020 I became particularly conscious of it so I decided to look into the possibility of surgery.
I decided initially to have a video consultation with Anthony as he has an extensive background in nerve surgery and my biggest concern about neck/face surgery was the possibility of nerve damage. Anthony instantly made me feel comfortable and was able to address all my concerns and answer all my questions.
Following that video call I had a detailed face-to-face consultation and was impressed with the level of discussion we had about the procedure and the balance of risk. I was shown before and after photographs of previous patients as well as a video of the procedure itself.
I had a further consultation prior to surgery and again I felt reassured that I was in safe hands. I had good care at Circle Bath Hospital and Anthony visited me during the evening of my surgery and assured me that the procedure had gone well.
I am now 2 months post surgery and I am healing well. I cannot believe how good the results are and wish that I had had the procedure years ago. I highly recommend Anthony if you are thinking of having similar corrective surgery. I couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome.
Why Choose Anthony MacQuillan for Your Neck Procedure
Anthony’s dedication to artistry, precision, and individualised care ensures that your neck procedure will be tailored to meet your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Our clinic combines the latest surgical techniques with a compassionate approach to patient care, ensuring a supportive and reassuring experience from consultation through recovery.
Whether you’re seeking subtle enhancements or a more significant transformation, we are here to guide you towards achieving a refreshed, natural-looking beauty that aligns with your personal vision.
To learn more about how our neck procedures can help you achieve the look you desire, or to schedule a consultation with Anthony, please contact us today.
Further Reading about Face Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
Learn more about other face procedures Anthony preforms, including;
