What is a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty)?
A neck lift, or Platysmaplasty, is a procedure in which excess skin is removed from around the neck, and the remaining skin is repositioned and tightened. The desired effect of this surgery is to reduce wrinkles and sagging skin, and give the neck a more youthful appearance with a sharper angle beneath the chin. Platysmaplasty can be performed without having any other plastic surgical procedure performed on the face, although it is often performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as a face lift or liposuction. Factors that can affect the appearance of your neck over time include aging, heredity, and weight loss.
In order to perform a Platysmaplasty, small incisions are made around the ears and/or below the chin. The skin around the neck is then tightened and repositioned, and excess skin is removed. This procedure typically takes about 2-3 hours to perform.
You might be a good candidate for Platysmaplasty if:
- You are in a healthy physical condition
- Signs of aging are bothering you
- You have lost a good amount of weight, and have excess skin about the face and neck
- You have what appears to be a “double-chin”
- Loose skin hangs from your neck, causing the appearance of a “turkey neck”
- Your bone structure is optimal, and your skin has good elasticity
Neck lifts are performed on an outpatient basis, and you should be able to leave within a few hours of your surgery. The areas where the surgeon makes the incisions will be wrapped in dressings, and may include drain tubes to reduce swelling and quicken the healing process. You should be up on your feet immediately after surgery, but be sure to take it easy for some time afterward. Plan on taking 7-10 days off from work following your Platysmaplasty.
There isn’t much pain or discomfort associated with neck lifts, but you may experience some bruising, swelling, and numbness following your surgery. These symptoms should subside in a few weeks. Your incisions will be well camouflaged after a few weeks, and you should be completely back to normal within 2-3 weeks. A full recovery could take as long as six months.