Top Necklift Specialist in New Jersey

• Overview
• Indications
• Procedure
• Recovery
• Alternatives

Overview of Necklift Benefits

Gravity loosens the ligaments that suspend our face and neck while our skin continues to grow. Surgery can help to remove excessive skin and soft tissue, and re-suspend the lower facial muscles, ligaments and soft tissue of the neck. The result is a more youthful, refreshed and natural appearance.

At the time of your consultation, Dr. Undavia will use computer imaging to show you a realistic goal for your face.

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Indications

A “turkey gobbler” neck, which features vertical bands and jowls, is the most common indicator for a necklift.

Necklift Procedure

First during the neck lift procedure the neck is addressed with liposuction to remove the excess adipose (fatty) tissue. The platysma muscle is tightened during the procedure to remove the “turkey gobbler” appearance of the neck. This is all done through a tiny 1.5 cm incision under the chin, hidden within the chin skin crease. Incisions are also hidden around the ear to provide access to re-suspend the soft tissue of the lower face and neck. Excessive skin is then removed. The incisions are closed with perfect technique to help hide the evidence of surgery. If you wish, other procedures can be done at the same time as necklift surgery, such as blepharoplasty.

Necklift Surgery Recovery

After surgery is complete, you will have the choice to stay overnight or go home. It is not necessary to stay overnight, but some patients prefer it. A pressure dressing is applied in the operating room that is removed the following day. Then a more breathable pressure dressing is applied that should be worn for about one week. The sutures are removed between days 5-7. Most patients do not complain of pain during the recovery period. Regular visits are scheduled to check on the surgical site, and to help avoid any potential complications. Swelling and mild bruising is expected, and typically begins to recede at one week. A short course of steroids may be prescribed to help to bring the swelling down more quickly. Antibiotics and pain medication are also prescribed. Most patients will require a down time of 10-14 days. If you have a major event, you can expect to have great results by 30 days, although at 90 days, the results are fully achieved.

Alternatives to a Necklift

If a neck lift is not right for you, then there are options that are both surgical and non-surgical. A mini necklift can help address similar areas but with less dissection and less downtime. The results are typically not as dramatic but this procedure can be appropriate for someone with minimal signs of aging or someone who is interested in prevention.

Additionally, if surgery isn’t for you there are a host of injectables and fillers, as well as skin resurfacing procedures that can help achieve your goals. Please ask us about your non-surgical options.

Patients often ask about the “Lifestyle Lift” which has been aggressively marketed as a quick lift with minimal downtime. While it is true, the results are minimal compared to true neck lift, and often short lived. The results last anywhere from 6 months to 2-3 years. And after spending significant sums of money, patients are often unhappy at how minimal the results are. Dr. Undavia does not perform this type of neck rejuvenation.