Even when we take care of our bodies, eat right, exercise, and stay out of the sun, the neck area
can become a problem for many people over 40. The years take a toll on your skin,
but it could be argued that your neck the first place to see the telltale signs of age.
A neck lift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that treats the signs of aging on the neck. The procedure addresses:
If you are struggling with your neck and jowl area and have lost the firm, smooth lower face you once had, a neck lift may be the most appropriate procedure for you. As the jawline softens and the neck loses elasticity, it can result in hanging skin, a saggy jawline, and a double chin. A neck lift is the surgical approach to these problems and delivers the most dramatic results of any neck procedure.
Dr. Placik is a board certified plastic surgeon in Chicago and an active member of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He received his medical degree from Northwestern University where he also completed residencies in general and plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Read more >>Dr. Placik will determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure at your consultation. Once he decides the best treatment option based on the elasticity of your skin, your neck muscles, and your overall goals for the procedure, a thorough health assessment will be performed to ensure that your neck lift procedure is a success. Your vital signs, bloodwork, and all past procedures (whether cosmetic or medical) will be pertinent information that must be carefully evaluated to ensure your candidacy.
A neck lift is not a “one size fits all” procedure, and your neck lift will vary depending on the state of your skin, fatty deposits, and the condition of your neck muscles. Generally, a neck lift procedure will take several hours and is performed under general anesthesia, so you are comfortable and pain-free. Dr. Placik will make small incisions near your ears and chin. The neck muscles may be tightened, the excess skin and fatty deposits removed, and the neck and jawline firmed and smoothed.
Depending on which type of neck lift procedure you have had, you will need to plan for some downtime to ensure that your healing goes well. You will be closely monitored throughout your recovery and provided with specific directions for fast, successful progress in healing. Some patients are candidates for rapid recovery and able to return to their usual activities within a week. Others may require a two-week recovery.
Full results of your neck lift may not be visible for roughly six months; however, visible results will be evident immediately and will continue to improve in the days and weeks following surgery.
Since everyone is different, this will vary widely. Some will not have a problem affecting the neck until well into the 50s, and others see the neck beginning to age as early as their 30s. Generally, most patients choose to undergo a neck lift at between 40 and 55 years of age.
Neck lift surgery is an outpatient procedure and, in most cases, will not require a hospital stay. The time of the operation can vary, but once it is complete, you will generally be able to return home after a period of rest, under the care of a friend or family member.
To meet with double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Otto J. Placik, you can request a consultation online or call our Arlington Heights office at 847-398-1660 or our Chicago office at 312-787-5313 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you look your very best.
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