Overview: Neck Lift

A neck lift, performed by Seattle cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Craig Jonov, is a procedure that can reverse the signs of aging on the neck, resulting in a more youthful neck appearance. Sagging skin and unwanted fat can hide the youthful angles of a patient’s jaw. A neck lift is designed to address this issue and remove sagging tissue that hangs below the chin. Good candidates for this surgery have hanging jowls, drooping neck tissue, neck bands or excess neck fat. During the consultation, Dr. Jonov will assess the neck to determine if a neck lift alone is needed, or if liposuction or a facelift should also be incorporated.

Neck Lift Surgical Technique

A neck lift will address several issues including the removal of excess fat, the trimming of hanging skin and the tightening of loose skin around the underlying neck muscles. Firstly, Dr. Jonov will make an incision under the chin, and in some cases, behind or in front of the ears. If fat removal is part of this surgery, liposuction will be the first step. Next, the neck muscles (platysma) are pulled tight and the overlying skin is stretched and re-draped to achieve the desired definition. Finally, he places sutures deep within the neck wall and he may insert a drain to control bleeding.

Questions About Neck Lift Bellevue & Kirkland

Non-Surgical Neck Lift?

Loose skin within the neck–a distinct flaw–requires surgical intervention to remedy. Unfortunately, this is the only true way to redefine a person’s neck and add the necessary definition needed to improve the contour and profile. If only the muscles are visible, a Botox neck lift may help.

Visible Scars?

A neck lift requires an incision under the chin and near the ears. However, the doctor places these inconspicuously (within the hairline on the ears and under the chin) so looking straight ahead you will not see them. We make every effort during surgery to minimize visible scarring as much as possible.

Average Age?

Individuals in their 20s and 30s may benefit from a neck lift, especially those who experienced a massive weight loss or have a hereditary defect of the neck. Patients in their 60s and 70s often undergo a neck lift to cosmetically treat the visible signs of aging.

Neck or Chin?

Some patients will have issues with their neck, but these problems may actually be the result of a “weak chin.” Without the proper support of the chin bone, the neck isn’t able to have a defined contour. Our doctor may recommend a chin implant (genioplasty or mentoplasty) to reshape the chin and make it wider or more prominent. This can have a great impact on the neck for many patients. This surgery is considered a reconstructive procedure and requires the skill of an experienced surgeon. You may still need a neck lift after the chin implant.

During/After Neck Lift Surgery Kirkland & Bellevue

A neck lift is considered an outpatient procedure, performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. The surgery of Neck lift Kirkland and in Bellevue typically takes 2 hours to complete, but that will vary by surgical case. The surgery may or may not include a platysmaplasty. After surgery, there will be some bruising and swelling. Patients will feel tightness and a pulling sensation as the neck adjusts to its new position. Most patients are able to return to work within 7-10 days. It can take several months for the optimal results to appear and for the neck to look and feel natural.

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