Neck Lift
Conveniently located to serve the areas of New York, NY
A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure that addresses signs of aging and improves the contours of the neck and jawline. Unfortunately, the structures of the neck change as we mature. Increasing skin laxity and changes in the platysma muscles, which cover the neck, can make us seem older than we are. A neck lift removes excess skin and fat, and reinforces the muscles, creating a youthful, rejuvenated appearance. Dr. Steven Wallach is dedicated to providing patients with beautiful, natural-looking results, and neck lifts are just one of the many revitalizing surgeries that he performs to turn back the clock for a discerning clientele. If you’ve found yourself troubled by neck banding, loose or wrinkled skin, or the dreaded “turkey neck,” consider a neck lift. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Wallach to learn more about this procedure. His offices are adjacent to the Neue Galerie on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Call us at (212) 861-6400 or book your appointment online.
Contents
About a Neck Lift
The neck is a complex structure and houses many of the systems essential for our survival. It’s also an extremely delicate part of the body, and one of the first places to display the signs of aging. (1) A long, slender neck has been a desirable sign of beauty across millennia and cultures. Unfortunately, the aging process, weight fluctuations, or genetics can leave us with a neck that’s more akin to a turkey than a swan. And, it’s not just changes in our skin that are to blame. The muscles of our neck include the platysma, a wide swath of muscle that stretches upwards from our collarbones to our jaw. As we age, the muscle fibers of the platysma weaken and separate, causing the “banding” or sinewy appearance of the neck. And, as these muscles separate beneath the chin, they allow for the formation of a “turkey wattle.” A platysmaplasty, or neck lift, corrects the loose or separated muscles and removes excess skin and fat deposits from the neck. By carefully addressing these internal structures, skilled surgeons can impart lithe, smooth, contours, and turn back the clock on the appearance of a patient’s neck.
Before and After Photos
Benefits
A neck lift can be the perfect solution for sagging skin and the appearance of muscle banding in the neck. Patients can also experience an improved cervicomental angle: the angle formed where the chin meets the neck. By addressing the platysmal gaps, removing excess fat and skin, and redraping the remaining skin, surgeons can help patients achieve an ideal neck appearance.
Advantages of a Neck Lift
- Reduced wrinkles, lines, and banding
- Incisions are well-concealed in the natural contours of the ears and under the chin
- Resolves “turkey wattle” and double chin
- Contributes to a more youthful, slender overall appearance
- Natural-looking results that boost self-confidence and esteem
Ideal Candidates
The best way to determine whether a neck lift is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wallach. He will explain the criteria for patients considering surgery. They include:
- Being frustrated at the appearance of lax, sagging skin around the neck
- Able to maintain a stable weight and good health
- Seeking long-lasting results
- Willing to forgo smoking for several weeks before and after their procedure
- Have realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve
Personal Consultation with Dr. Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach is a board-certified plastic surgeon committed to creating excellent outcomes for each of his patients. Since starting his private practice on 5th Avenue, he has helped many patients discover the best versions of themselves with transformational procedures. His level of commitment has earned him glowing patient reviews and recognition by numerous national and international medical associations and media outlets. Your consultation with Dr. Wallach is an opportunity to discuss your aesthetic concerns with an expert so that you can make an informed, confident decision.
After reviewing your medical history, Dr. Wallach will examine your neck, paying special attention to skin laxity and the underlying tissues. During your visit, please feel free to ask questions about your surgery. We want you to be fully informed and prepared for the journey ahead. Dr. Wallach will determine whether a neck lift will best serve your needs and explain the entire procedure step-by-step.
Book your informative consultation with one of New York City’s finest plastic surgeons today! Call our office at (212) 861-6400 to schedule a consultation.
Preparation
Our team will prepare patients with a personalized list of instructions to follow before the date of their treatment. Most items on your list will be case-specific. However, below are general guidelines of what patients can do. They include:
- Modifying medication as directed by Dr. Wallach.
- Making a trip to the pharmacy in advance and picking up the medication prescribed.
- Choosing a supportive friend or family member to drive you home once your surgery is complete.
- Taking 1-2 weeks off from work to recuperate.
- Following the directives on fasting. Usually, patients will be asked to stop eating and drinking at midnight before surgery.
Patients wishing to get a comprehensive view of other treatments we offer are encouraged to check out our blog.
Procedure
Depending on your specific case, your treatment will start by administering twilight sedation or general anesthesia. Once it has taken effect, Dr. Wallach will begin by making incisions alongside the ears and behind the hairline. [1] Another incision may be made underneath the chin to allow Dr. Wallach access to the platysma. Liposuction may be performed if patients have excess fat under the chin and jawline. Patients with minor to moderate signs of neck aging will have a mini-neck lift performed, which involves an incision only under the chin. Once he has adjusted the necessary tissues, he’ll excise any surplus skin and redrape the neck for a smooth, youthful appearance.
The incisions will be sutured closed once the desired effect is achieved. At the end of the surgery, dressings are applied around the head and neck to protect the results.
Recovery
After your neck lift, you’ll return to Dr. Wallach’s office regularly so that he can monitor your progress and remove sutures once the incisions have healed.
While you convalesce, you may notice some stiffness, discomfort, and swelling. The neck dressings will assist with the swelling, and the prescribed pain medications will help assuage the pain. You’ll be provided with detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions, medication, and bathing. While sleeping, please keep your head elevated to reduce swelling. By the end of week two of your recovery, you should be able to resume light activity. However, you’ll need to continue to heal for several more weeks before attempting more strenuous activity. Dr. Wallach will be able to give you an accurate timeline of your recovery process during your follow-up appointments.
Results
Over the next few months, swelling will continue to dissipate and your incision lines will begin to fade. Once fully recovered, you can expect streamlined contours for your neck and a more youthful overall appearance. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will ensure that you’ll be able to enjoy your results for many years to come.
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Corresponding and Complementary Procedures
A neck lift can often be performed along with other facial treatments for a more comprehensive rejuvenated effect. At your consultation, Dr. Wallach may recommend:
Facelift
Patients considering a neck lift often also have loose skin and other signs of aging that extend above the jawline. For the best results, a facelift can be performed at the same time as a neck lift so that patients have a consistent appearance and enjoy comprehensive results.
Non-Surgical Neck Lift
There are non-surgical alternatives available for patients with mild signs of aging or who are hesitant to commit to surgery. Non-invasive treatments such as Broad Band Light (BBL) skin tightening can improve the appearance of the neck skin. And, injectables such as Botox can temporarily soften the appearance of neck bands and improve creasing on the neck.
Cost of a Neck Lift in New York City
Depending on your case, the estimated cost for a neck lift can vary between $8,500-$15,000. Our staff will be able to provide you with a detailed breakdown of all the costs associated with a neck lift following your consultation. Here, we’ll explain your options, including two helpful financial companies that can make funding your treatment much simpler.
FAQ
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift reduces the amount of excess skin and fat from the neck to create a youthful-looking appearance for the area. This procedure excises excess skin, removes stubborn fat deposits, readjusts underlying muscles, and pulls the skin taut to produce a more youthful look.
How can I prepare for a neck lift?
To prepare for surgery, patients should follow the personalized instructions provided by the office. They include avoiding smoking and drinking, arranging a ride home, taking time off from work, and picking up necessary medication.
What is a mini neck lift?
A mini neck lift is a modified neck lift that may employ liposuction and muscle tightening through a small submental (under the chin) incision.
How long does it take to recover from a neck lift?
Most patients should expect to recover from their neck lift procedure within 2 weeks, but it may take several months for residual swelling to dissipate and final results to be visible.
References
- Cardoso de Castro, MD, C. (2003, May). Neck Lift. Academic.oup.com; Aesthetic Surgery Journal. https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/23/3/165/252764
- Weinstein, A. L., & Nahai, F. (2021). A layered approach to neck lift. Plastic and Aesthetic Research, 2021. https://doi.org/10.20517/2347-9264.2020.192