Neck Lift in St. Louis

For a Contoured Jawline

Patients seek neck rejuvenation for a variety of reasons. Some have excess fullness that they do not like. Others have developed a sagging “turkey neck” that can be displeasing. Muscular “bands” can grow and create abnormal contours. 

If one or all of these issues concern you, Dr. Scott Geiger and Dr. John Hulsen can offer customized treatment options in St. Louis to restore a more youthful appearance during your consultation.

QUICK FACTS:

  • Length: 2.5-3.5 hrs
  • Anesthesia: General
  • Stay: Outpatient, same day surgery
  • Recovery: 1-3 weeks
  • Side Effects: Swelling, bruising, temporary numbness & tingling

A NECK LIFT CAN:

  • Reduce fullness under the chin
  • Restore the jawline contour
  • Remove loose, hanging skin
  • Disrupt tight neck bands

UNDERSTANDING NECK LIFT SURGERY

A neck lift, medically known as a platysmaplasty or cervicoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck. This procedure targets loose skin, excess fat, and muscle banding that contribute to an aged or ill-defined neck profile. The primary objective of a neck lift surgery is to create a smoother, firmer neck and a more distinct jawline, contributing to a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

BENEFITS OF A NECK LIFT

Considering a neck lift offers several distinct advantages for individuals seeking to improve their neck and jawline contour. This procedure can:

  • Reduce excess fullness under the chin, often referred to as a “double chin”
  • Restore a more defined and sculpted jawline contour
  • Remove loose, hanging skin that creates a “turkey neck” appearance
  • Smooth and disrupt tight neck bands (platysmal bands) that contribute to an aged look
  • Provide a more youthful and balanced facial profile

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE?

Patients with relatively young, elastic skin suffering from fullness under the chin may be candidates for nonsurgical volume reduction by Kybella®. Those with loose skin or muscular banding will need a tightening procedure, such as a surgical neck lift. This is often combined with a facelift for harmonious rejuvenation. If the facial tissues are still pleasing with minimal aging, some patients may choose an isolated neck lift to correct this imbalance.

Patients must be in good overall health and free from any active infections. Uncontrolled medical conditions such as severe heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or diabetes can increase surgical risks and may prevent you from being a suitable candidate. Furthermore, smoking and all nicotine use are an absolute contraindication for at least four to six weeks before surgery due to the increased risk of wound healing complications.

PREPARING FOR A NECK LIFT

A neck lift is a major operation that requires optimizing health, blood pressure, and skin quality beforehand. Your surgeon may request adjustments to any blood pressure medications with the assistance of your primary care provider.

Some patients may benefit from a skin treatment regimen 1-3 months before their procedure.

Smoking and all nicotine cessation is an absolute must for at least 4-6 weeks before this particular procedure, as significant wound healing complications can occur otherwise. This includes e-cigarettes, patches, and gum.

Any medications and supplements that increase the risk of bleeding should also be stopped two weeks before any major surgery. Please see our list of medications and supplements to avoid. As always, make sure to check with your doctor before stopping any medications.

NECK LIFT TECHNIQUE:

Your surgeon will design incisions that hide along natural lower ear creases, under the earlobe, along the neck hairline, and sometimes under the chin. After the patient is asleep, he will infiltrate some numbing medication into the neck tissues, which will also help minimize bruising and bleeding. Once the excess skin is elevated, the underlying neck muscles will be tightened for a more youthful, contoured jawline. 

Muscular banding will be addressed as needed, and any fullness can be excised or suctioned out. Our surgeons use internal dissolving sutures that last several weeks to help keep your scars as fine and faint as possible, and some external sutures for an acceptable approximation that must be removed in 1 week. A drain that will be removed in 1-4 days may be placed. A gentle wrap will be put to help minimize bruising and swelling.

RECOVERY FROM NECK LIFT SURGERY

Most patients recover at home after their surgery. Our surgeons will evaluate their neck lift patients the day after surgery to remove and replace dressings and ensure you understand your care plan. Patients typically plan 1-3 weeks off work to allow the bruising and swelling to improve. Drains will be removed in 1-4 days, and external sutures will be removed in 1 week. Significant improvement in appearance is seen in the first 6 weeks, but final swelling can take 3-6 months to resolve fully. Scars will mature and fade over the ensuing year.

Starting the day after surgery, patients are instructed to take frequent, gentle walks. Avoid straining or any strenuous activity for 1-2 weeks, as this can increase the risks of bruising and bleeding. After two weeks, patients can increase activity to moderate exercises and cardio training, then resume all activities, including weight training, after four weeks.

COST OF NECK LIFT SURGERY

The cost of a neck lift surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is combined with other treatments, such as a facelift. During your personalized consultation, our team will provide a detailed breakdown of all associated costs, including anesthesia fees and facility charges.

WHY CHOOSE CHESTERFIELD PLASTIC SURGERY

Choosing Chesterfield Plastic Surgery for your neck lift surgery in St. Louis means selecting a practice committed to patient safety, exceptional results, and personalized care. Dr. Scott Geiger and Dr. John Hulsen are highly respected, board-certified plastic surgeons in St. Louis with extensive experience in facial rejuvenation procedures, including neck and jawline lift and surgical neck tightening. 

Our approach focuses on understanding your unique aesthetic goals and developing a customized surgical plan that delivers natural-looking results. We prioritize patient education, providing complete information and comfort throughout your journey.

NECK LIFT FAQs

The results of a neck lift are considered long-lasting, typically enduring for 10 years or more. While the procedure significantly reverses signs of aging, the natural aging process will continue over time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and protecting your skin can help prolong the benefits.

Dr. Geiger and Dr. Hulsen carefully place the incisions discreetly hidden along natural lower ear creases, under the earlobe, along the neck hairline, and sometimes under the chin. While scars are a natural part of any surgical procedure, they are strategically placed to be as inconspicuous as possible and typically fade significantly over time.

Most patients report manageable discomfort rather than severe pain after a neck lift. Any post-operative pain is typically controlled with prescribed oral pain medication. Swelling and tightness are common sensations that gradually subside during the recovery period.

SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION NOW

Ready to learn more about how neck lift surgery in St. Louis can help you achieve a more defined and youthful neck contour? Contact Chesterfield Plastic Surgery today to schedule your neck lift consultation with Dr. Scott Geiger or Dr. John Hulsen. We look forward to discussing your aesthetic goals and developing a personalized plan for your neck contouring goals.

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