Necks are often the first casualty in the war against facial aging. Gravity, along with the breakdown of collagen and elastin needed to keep skin tight, typically affects the thin, delicate tissues of the neck before other facial features. A neck lift addresses the sagging skin, excess fat, and loose muscles that can create the dreaded “turkey neck” appearance.
Naturally, women and men considering a neck lift want to know how long the results will last. The truth is that the longevity of a neck lift depends on a variety of factors, including your age when the procedure is performed, the specific surgical techniques used, and the extent of the original issues being addressed.
What Is a Neck Lift?
The definition of a neck lift is different from surgeon to surgeon. Many surgeons take a more comprehensive approach than just addressing the aging neck from a submental (under the chin) approach.
Neck lift incisions also vary greatly based on the amount of excess tissue present and other individual patient factors. In most cases, our surgeons believe a neck lift must address the deeper SMAS-platysma layer in addition to excess neck skin and fat to achieve long-lasting and natural-looking results. A neck lift:
- Tightens loose skin
- Reduces stubborn fat
- Smooths neck bands
- Tightens the platysma muscle
- Creates a younger, slimmer appearance
A neck lift is often combined with a facelift to enhance results. Be sure to read our related blog post, Ultimate Guide to Neck Lift Surgery, for more information about how the neck ages and how a neck lift improves the neck.
Factors Influencing How Long a Neck Lift Lasts
The results of a neck lift can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. The duration of the results depends on several factors. One important factor that can impact the longevity of a neck lift is the patient’s age at the time of the procedure. Younger patients may enjoy longer-lasting results because their skin is more elastic and able to bounce back after surgery. Older patients may experience more sagging and drooping over time, which can shorten the lifespan of their neck lift.
A patient’s overall health and lifestyle habits also play a role in how long the results last. Smoking, for example, damages the skin and accelerates the aging process, making the results of a neck lift less durable. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, on the other hand, helps to keep the skin and muscles toned and firm, which can prolong the effects of a neck lift.
Getting the Best Results
Ultimately, the best way to ensure long-lasting results from a neck lift is to work with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who can customize the procedure to each patient’s unique needs and goals. By selecting the right surgeon and following proper aftercare instructions, patients can help to maximize the lifespan of their neck lift and enjoy a more youthful, refreshed appearance for years to come. You can see the results our patients enjoy in their neck lift before and after photos.
If you’re bothered by the appearance of your neck and want to learn if a neck lift is right for you, request a consultation with either Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno by using the online form. Or call us at (312) 788-2560 to schedule an appointment.
Leave a Reply