How Long Does a Neck Lift Surgery Take?

As we get older, our skin becomes less elastic. We start noticing more loose skin, muscle banding, and excess fat in various parts of our body. Some can easily be hidden under clothing but others simply can’t. Double chin, jowls, and other fat deposits on the lower face are quite hard to hide.

For people seeking to lift and tighten sagging skin along the jawline and neck area, undergoing a neck lift is one way to achieve a slimmer profile and a more youthful appearance.

What is a Neck Lift?

A neck lift is a set of procedures done to define the appearance of the neck area. Depending on the specific concerns of a patient, it could be just one simple outpatient procedure or a combination of various surgical procedures.

Some of the most popular ways of getting a neck lift are through Botox injection and through liposuction. These procedures require minimal invasion and allow for fast recovery times. For complex cases though, more invasive procedures are needed. Excess skin can be removed through cervicoplasty, and neck muscles can be altered through platysmaplasty. Neck lift surgeries may be more complicated, but they offer long-lasting results.

The surgical procedure for a neck lift takes just a couple of hours or so, but the preparation and recovery time is much longer. To give you an idea on what to expect when you go through the procedure, here’s how long each phase takes:

Consultation: You can schedule consultations with a doctor before you undergo the actual procedure. Your doctor would evaluate your health, talk about the procedure, and explain the risks involved. They would also discuss surgical goals and set realistic expectations. Together, you will decide which surgical method is best for you. Your doctor might also suggest additional procedures that can help give optimal results. In your last pre-surgery consultation, your face will be measured and your picture will be taken for comparison after the surgery.
Pre-surgery: If you smoke or have unhealthy habits, your doctor might put off your surgery for a month. During this time, you have to refrain from smoking and maintain a healthy diet. This would ensure that your body heals better after the neck lift. You would to prepare for the week-long home rest you’ll need after your surgery.
Surgery: If you’re just getting a Botox injection, you would most likely spend just about 15 to 30 minutes in the doctor’s clinic. On the other hand, liposuction will take a little longer, as the procedure involves making a small incision below the chin to remove the excess fat. Neck lift surgeries can take around for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll be given local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. The surgeon will make several incisions behind the ears and under the chin to lift the neck muscles. Then extra skin and fat are removed before the incisions are closed. Typically, a small tube would be attached to the neck to drain any fluid that collects under the skin. The sutures on the incision site will be dressed and a tight bandage would be secured underneath the chin and around the head.
Post-Treatment: Neck lift is an outpatient procedure so you won’t have to be confined in a hospital. Your doctor will give you instructions to guide you in the recovery process. You’ll also be given a schedule of follow-up procedures and wellness checks. Two days after the surgery, you must go back to have the drain in your neck removed. You also need to return 5 to 10 days after to have the stitches removed. Rest at home for at least a week is also recommended. You must wear the bandage all day for the first week to reduce swelling. You might also need to take medication for pain when necessary. Just make sure you take only those that are prescribed by your doctor. Two weeks after the procedure, you can go back to work, but you should avoid strenuous activities. If your work involves heavy lifting or vigorous activities, take a couple more weeks off to prevent untoward incidents.
Full recovery: While the effects of a neck lift surgery is long-lasting, the results are not immediately visible. It can take several weeks to months for the swelling to subside. Incision lines take about six months to fade and become less noticeable. However, recent advancements in technology may shorten recovery time.

Where to Get a Neck Lift Near Me?

If you’re in the Fort Lauderdale area, you can schedule a no-obligation consultation at Palmer Cosmetic Surgery. This fully accredited cosmetic surgery has a team of experts who see to it that every patient gets the best treatment possible. They also have access to cutting-edge technology that ensures minimal discomfort and fast recovery time.

It has been an amazing result after having a C-section and being very uncomfortable with my body. Dr. Palmer has given me a new beginning and the confidence I needed with my body. I’ve recommended several other people to him, and they could not have asked for better.

Liposuction Patient

The final results are remarkable and impressive. I look like myself, only 10 years younger. Dr. Palmer is a visionary in his field. He looked at my face, assessed the issues, and corrected them beyond my expectations. He is professional and makes you feel as if you have known him your entire life. His office staff are outstanding at meeting and exceeding your needs. I would recommend Dr. Palmer to all of my close friends and family.

Neck Lift Surgery Patient

The doctor was very kind, patient, and genuinely showed concern. He answered my questions and did not rush me. I found Melissa very helpful and nice as well.

Arm Lift Patient

Courteous friendly staff. Very informative and took a lot of time with me explaining everything. I went for one thing that Doctor Palmer didn’t think it was necessary even though he would have made money on me. I appreciate his honesty and professionalism.

radiofrequency Microneedling Patient

I had my upper eyelids done. I am five days post-surgery, and I am thrilled! My neck is flat and even my chest looks tighter, which I didn’t expect. My face has minimal bruising. I still have swelling, but my cheeks are where they are supposed to be. I would highly recommend Dr. Palmer.

Eyelid Surgery Patient

Dr. Palmer is interested in you as a person and wants to improve your quality of life.

Breast Lift Patient

I just had my procedure done. I’m. Very happy with the outcome. My friend had used him for her surgery and she looked amazing, so she recommended him to me. I have had two surgeries with him now. Amazing, friendly staff. Great practice!!

Thigh Lift Patient

Dr. Palmer and staff are always friendly, timely, and knowledgeable. His technique almost eliminates any discomfort.

Injectables Patient

Extremely professional, polite, and efficient. Painless, easy, and desired result achieved!

Renuvion J Plasma Patient Patient

I have had many procedures. Highly satisfied with all. Dr. Palmer is an amazing physician. I feel I am in the best hands. His staff is top notch, and it is always a pleasant experience to visit his office.

All I had to do was show up; they did everything to make me comfortable. I was prepared with all my medication for after the surgery. I am three weeks post-op and feel great. They continue to follow up with phone calls and appointments to ensure my satisfaction. I will be recommending Dr. Palmer to everyone.

Breast Augmentation Patient

Everything. Stress free. Friendly staff. Dr. Palmer showed me care and patience with my first experience. I felt at ease.

Gynecomastia Patient

The doctor has a wonderful beside manner. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Amazing patient care!

Breast Reduction Patient

Excellent staff and surgeon; can’t say enough. Dr. Palmer is as professional as they come. This is my family’s second experience with him, and we have not been disappointed in the outcomes. My results are very natural, and I am very comfortable recommending him. Very happy with my results.

Palmer Lift Patient

My appointment ran on time. I met with Dr. Palmer, he explained my options thoroughly, and he listened to what I was looking for and what was best for me personally. I totally felt he cared about what was in my best interest.

truSculpt Flex Patient

Warm and friendly staff and Dr. Palmer. Felt like family. My eyes are healing well, and any concerns I had were addressed immediately!

Dermal Filler Patient

The office staff and clinical employees were very professional. Every question was answered in detail, and I felt 100% at ease with the procedure and the clinical staff. So far, the results are what I had hoped to see and am very satisfied. I feel the doctor’s main interest is seeing the expected results for their patients. He truly does his absolute best to ensure the patients are 100% satisfied.

Dr. Palmer is amazing. Great attitude, very honest, and knowledgeable. Painless and fast results!

Jeuveau Patient

I had several procedures done. The outcome was amazing! Dr. Palmer is incredible with his no-pain technique. He is great, professional, and an outstanding surgeon. I would recommend him to anyone who wants any procedure. INCREDIBLE SURGEON.

Tummy Tuck Patient

Dr Palmer. was very sure of himself and his ability. He portrays confidence in his work and, therefore, I felt like he did a good job selling himself.

Brow Lift Patient

Melissa was extremely patient with my son and very helpful in explaining the procedure in detail. She took her time with us and answered our many questions, as well as gave us an extremely positive comfort level in having surgery with Dr. Palmer. Dr. Palmer was thorough and precise in his explanations of the before, during, and after procedures involved in the process of rhinoplasty. He seemed confident and knowledgeable, but also kind and considerate.

Rhinoplasty Patient

I had two people recommend Dr. Palmer who had used him. The staff was very concerned with answering my questions and making me feel at home, and Dr. Palmer was very assuring in his manner and his experience.

Abdominoplasty Patient

I have all trust in the office with the staff and the doctor; very professional all the time. They listen to your needs and wants and explain everything very clear to you. I have and always will recommend this office. I just feel much better about my appearance all around.

Dysport Patient

How Long Does a Neck Lift Surgery Take?