A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, can help to smooth out wrinkles and sagging skin, giving the neck a more youthful and defined appearance. If you are considering a neck lift, it’s important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon to perform the surgery. Dustin C. Derrick, MD at Cosmetic Surgery of DFW in Fort Worth, TX has years of experience delivering the results you’re looking for.
How Does a Neck Lift Work?
The specific steps involved in a rhytidectomy will depend on the individual patient’s needs and the technique used by the surgeon. Here are some common steps that may be involved in a neck lift:
Anesthesia
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient will be unconscious during the surgery. General anesthesia is used to ensure comfort during the procedure. In some cases, a rhytidectomy may be performed using local anesthesia, which numbs the area being treated. This may be an option for people who have a specific issue or concern with their neck that can be addressed with a limited procedure.
However, most neck lift procedures are more complex and require the use of general anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. It’s important to discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used during your procedure with your surgeon, who can explain the options and help you choose the best approach for your individual needs.
Incisions
During a rhytidectomy, the surgeon will make incisions in strategic locations around the neck and lower face to access the underlying muscles and tissues. The specific incision locations will depend on the individual patient’s needs and the technique used by the surgeon. Some common incision locations include:
- Behind the ears: used to remove excess skin and fat from the neck and lower face.
- Under the chin: used to remove excess fat from the neck and to tighten the underlying muscles.
- In the hairline: used to remove excess skin from the neck and to tighten the underlying muscles.
The incisions for a rhytidectomy are typically made in discreet locations to minimize the appearance of scarring. The surgeon will use sutures, skin glue, or surgical tape to close the incisions after the procedure.
Removing Excess Skin
The surgeon will remove excess skin from the neck and lower face to tighten and smooth the skin. This can help to improve the appearance of the neck and lower face by smoothing out wrinkles and sagging skin and giving the neck a more youthful and defined appearance.
Tightening the Muscles
The surgeon will tighten the underlying neck muscles to improve the definition and contour of the neck. The surgeon will carefully separate the skin from the underlying muscles and tissues, and tighten the muscles by suturing them together. This can help lift and define the neck, giving it a more youthful and defined appearance.
Closing the Incisions
The surgeon will close the incisions using sutures, skin glue, or surgical tape. After the surgery, the patient will need to wear a special bandage or wrap around the neck to support the area while it heals. The recovery process can vary depending on the individual patient, but most people can return to work and other normal activities within a few weeks of the procedure.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Lift?
A good candidate for a rhytidectomy is typically an adult who is in good overall health, has realistic expectations for the procedure, and is concerned about sagging skin, wrinkles, and other signs of aging on the face. There are a few key factors that can help determine whether someone is a good candidate for a rhytidectomy:
You Have Good Skin Elasticity
People with good skin elasticity tend to be better candidates for these procedures because their skin is more likely to conform to the new contours of the face after the procedure. There are several factors that can affect skin elasticity, including age, genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. As we age, our skin tends to lose elasticity and become less able to stretch and bounce back into place. Other factors, such as exposure to the sun, smoking, and poor nutrition, can also contribute to the loss of skin elasticity.
You’re in Good Overall Health
Good overall health is an important factor to consider when determining whether you are a good candidate for a neck lift or any other cosmetic surgery procedure. People who are in good overall health tend to be better candidates for these procedures because they are more likely to be able to recover quickly from the surgery and achieve the desired results. There are several reasons why good overall health is important for cosmetic surgery:
Reduced Risk of Complications
People who are in good overall health are less likely to experience complications during or after surgery, such as infection or adverse reactions to the anesthesia.
Faster Recovery
People who are in good overall health tend to recover from surgery more quickly and with fewer complications.
Better Results
People who are in good overall health are more likely to achieve the desired results from cosmetic surgery, as their bodies are better equipped to heal and recover from the procedure.
It’s important to discuss your overall health with our qualified and experienced plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic surgery procedure. He can evaluate your health and determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure based on your individual needs and goals.
You Know What to Expect
It’s important to have realistic expectations about the results of a facelift. A facelift can improve the appearance of the face, but it cannot stop the aging process or completely eliminate all signs of aging. Discuss your goals and expectations with Dr. Derrick to determine whether a facelift is right for you.
Other Things to Know
The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle
It’s important to note that a rhytidectomy is not a replacement for weight loss or a healthy lifestyle. While a lift can improve the appearance of the neck, it cannot address issues such as excess fat or poor skin tone caused by unhealthy habits. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help maintain the results of a neck lift and improve overall health and well-being.
The Recovery Process
The recovery process can vary depending on the individual patient, but most people can return to work and other normal activities within a few weeks of the procedure. However, it’s important to follow Dr. Derrick’s instructions for caring for the incisions. It’s also important to get plenty of rest during the recovery period to allow your body to heal and recover from the procedure.
Avoid strenuous activities and try to limit your physical activity as much as possible until Dr. Derrick gives you the green light to resume normal activities. A healthy diet can help your body heal and recover from the procedure, as well, so make sure to eat a well-balanced diet. Finally, know that smoking and alcohol can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It’s important to avoid these substances during the recovery period.
The Long-Term Results
While a neck lift can improve the appearance of the neck, it cannot stop the aging process or completely eliminate all signs of aging. Most people can expect to see long-lasting results from the procedure: up to a decade or even more. While a neck lift cannot stop the aging process or completely eliminate all signs of aging, it can significantly improve the appearance of the neck and lower face and give them a more youthful and defined appearance.
Maintenance treatments, such as Botox or facial fillers, may be necessary to maintain the results of the procedure because the natural aging process will eventually catch up. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, can help to preserve the results of your procedure as well as improve your overall health and well-being.
Is It Time to Consider a Lift?
If you’re wondering if a lift is right for you, a consultation is the best place to start. Dr. Derrick can help you understand if this is the right way to reach your goals. If you have any questions about this procedure, or for a Mommy Makeover or any other cosmetic procedure, then schedule a consultation with Dustin C. Derrick, MD at Cosmetic Surgery of DFW in Fort Worth, TX, via our website or give us a call at 817-562-7979.
