Neck Lift – Dr Peter Laniewski
Platysmaplasty (Neck Lift)
A neck lift is one of the most effective cosmetic surgery procedures to reduce the appearance of age-induced changes to the neck. A Platysmaplasty (neck lift) may be performed on its own, however, it may be performed in conjunction with a facelift, which results in a comprehensive reduction in age-induced changes to the face. A browplasty (brow lift) and upper or lower blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) may also be required to achieve the desired facial appearance.
One of the first places to exhibit age-induced changes is the neck. It is common for the skin to become loose as it loses its natural elasticity and muscles weaken. Indeed, this leads to the wrinkles and lines that are associated with older age. In addition, if you have lost a lot of weight, this can often make the skin on the neck loose, which has the same effect as aging on the neck’s appearance.
The purpose of a neck lift is to address loose skin and rhytids( wrinkles) that have formed on the neck to alter the appearance of the skin and address age-induced changes. Surgery will tighten the muscles and skin, address vertical bands and loose skin permanently.
What happens during a Platysmaplasty (neck lift)?
Dr Laniewski recommends that the skin is prepared six weeks prior to surgery with the topical use of vitamin A and glycolic acid for the best results.
A neck lift involves tightening the platysma muscles as well as re-draping or removing excess skin of the neck. In patients who carry a lot of weight in this area, some liposuction may be recommended. It is extremely important not to remove too much fat with Liposuction as this can make the Platysma muscles and Submandibular (salivary) gland more prominent, creating a gaunt look. Younger patients who only have excess fat in the neck area may only require Liposuction with or without Chin Augmentation (Genioplasty).
In an isolated plastysmaplasty ( neck lift ), Dr Laniewski will make an incision in the Submental area (underneath the chin) to access the Platysma Muscles. This incision is not always required in patients who will also undergo a facelift.
Dr Laniewski prefers not to make a visible incision under the chin and instead use the Platysmal suspension technique called Myellevate to achieve the same outcome using a much less invasive technique. Depending on the anatomy of the individual, the platysma muscles will be tightened with sutures and the skin re-draped to create a tighter, more defined jawline and address age-induced changes to the Silhouette. It may be necessary to make small incisions behind each ear in order to remove and re-drape excess, loose skin. Patients often request a neck lift only, however, it is important to understand that for many patients, a neck lift on its own is not the solution to achieving their appearance change goals. Dr Laniewski in consultation with his patient may recommend a Lower Rhytidectomy (facelift )in conjunction with a Platysmaplasty (neck lift) to achieve the best result.
Recovery & Results
Platysmaplasty (Neck lift) surgery is performed as day surgery in an accredited hospital however patients can choose to stay in hospital overnight. All patients will need to wear a compression garment for up to six weeks to prevent excess Swelling and Haematoma formation. The garment will also help ensure that there is uniformity in terms of Skin Tightening. Most patients can resume work within seven to ten days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for up to three weeks. The final results of your Neck lift will only be obvious several months after surgery once all swelling has subsided and the neck has healed completely. Even though the neck will still be prone to the natural ageing process, the results of a neck lift can last for several years.
Neck Lift Before and After Gallery
NECK LIFT FAQs
How much does a neck lift cost?
An individual cost estimate will be prepared for you after your consultation with Dr Laniewski Anaesthetist and hospital fees will be obtained on your behalf. Unfortunately, since this is a cosmetic procedure, the costs will not be covered by health insurers.
Does a Platysmaplasty (neck lift) hurt?
The neck lift procedure will be performed under general anaesthetic. This ensures that the surgery is pain-free and comfortable for the patient. But, it is important to remember that there will be some pain relief prescribed after the surgery for post-operative pain relief.
Who is an appropriate candidate for a Platysmaplasty (Neck Lift)?
The most appropriate candidate for this type of surgery is a non-smoker. Smoking seriously affects wound healing and increases the chances of post-operative complications. Most neck lift patients are between the ages of 40 and 80 and have folds and wrinkles that appear below the lower half of the face. Patients should also be in good health in general and have realistic expectations about what can be achieved with a neck lift. Patients who also want to address excess pockets of fat under the chin and jowls may need to add liposuction to their surgery.
What happens after a Platysmaplasty (Neck Lift)?
After a neck lift, you can expect some swelling and bruising that will be evident in the neck area. This is completely normal and will subside over time. Patients will need to wear a compression garment for up to six weeks to prevent excess swelling and haematoma formation. The garment will also help ensure that there is uniformity in terms of skin tightening.
There is some downtime associated with a neck lift and most patients can resume work within seven to ten days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for up to four weeks. It is important to remember that every patient will be different and downtime can vary from person to person. Dr Laniewski will be able to advise you on a one-to-one basis. As the skin will be sensitive and healing for several weeks after a neck lift, it is recommended that you avoid being in direct sunlight to ensure a healthy recovery process.
Post operative LED Light Therapy is strongly recommended to decrease your downtime and speed healing immediately after your surgery. The treatment is convenient and can be combined with your post operative visits. Lasting only 13 minutes and completely painless, LED Light Therapy is clinically proven to dramatically reduce the swelling and bruising that can occur after your surgery. Please speak to Dr Laniewski or one of his consultants to book in your treatment.
The results of a neck lift will appear gradually over time as the area starts to heal. Usually, patients will see the full effects of their neck lift within three to six months of having the procedure.
Does a Platysmaplasty (Neck Lift) need to be combined with a Rhytidectomy (facelift)?
A neck lift does not need to be combined with a facelift, but many patients choose to combine the 2 procedures. A facelift isn’t always necessary though. If the majority of the loose skin and wrinkles are below the chin, a neck lift might be enough to address your concerns. Dr Laniewski can give you a better idea of whether it’s necessary to combine the two procedures during your consultation.
Will there be scarring after a Platysmaplasty (Neck Lift)?
As with any type of surgery, some scarring should be expected. During surgery, the incisions will be made in the natural creases of the skin, which also helps minimise scarring. There are also steps that can be taken after surgery that will reduce the appearance of scarring. Dr Laniewski will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for the incision sites after your procedure.
What risks are associated with a Platysmaplasty (Neck Lift)?
The risks associated with a neck lift are very similar to other types of surgery. Infection, bleeding and haematoma are some of the most common risks, all of which can be reduced by following all aftercare instructions. Loss of sensitivity, contour deformities and scarring can also occur. Every step is taken to minimise risks before, during and after surgery but Dr Laniewski will make sure that you know exactly what’s possible during your consultation.
Are there alternative procedures that treat neck ageing?
Injection of neurotoxins and bio stimulators as well as suture lifting may be performed if surgery is not the most appropriate option for treatment of the neck. If you would like to find out more about a neck lift and what this procedure could do for you, you can contact us today to speak to a professional. In addition, you can arrange a consultation for a more personalised experience before surgery.
Post operative LED Light Therapy is strongly recommended to decrease your downtime and speed healing immediately after your surgery. The treatment is convenient and can be combined with your post operative visits. Lasting only thirteen minutes and completely painless, LED Light Therapy is clinically proven (in peer reviewed scientific publications) to dramatically reduce the swelling and bruising that can occur after your surgery and to minimise visible post-operative scarring. Please speak to our specialist surgeon Dr Peter Laniewski or one of his consultants to book in your treatment.
All surgery carries risks. Individual results may vary. You may need to seek a second opinion.
Dr Peter Laniewski FRACS ( PLAS) is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED 0001155003