Neck Lift (Rhytidectomy)
A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, smooths visible signs of aging along the jawline and neck, helping the neck area match a more youthful upper face.
What Is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck, including muscle banding that creates abnormal contours. Youthful contours fade for many reasons: heredity, gravity, environmental conditions, and stress.
When the neck area no longer matches your upper facial appearance, a neck lift can be a good solution, and the results can be long lasting.
Refined Jawline
Targets visible signs of aging along the jawline and neck for a more youthful profile.
Smoother Contours
Addresses muscle banding in the neck that creates abnormal contours.
Outpatient Procedure
Usually performed without an overnight hospital stay, so you recover at home.
Are You a Candidate?
A neck lift is not the right solution for everyone, and the procedure carries certain risks. Your surgeon will discuss all of this with you during your consultation. The best candidates generally:
- Are nonsmokers
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve
- Are bothered by a neck that no longer matches their upper facial appearance
What Happens During a Neck Lift
Neck lift surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, so you will not need to stay in the hospital overnight. The surgery itself takes about two hours, but plan on four to five hours at the surgical facility once prep time and recovery from anesthesia are included.
The most common incision sits just in front of the ear and extends into the hairline behind it. Through this incision, your surgeon accesses the underlying muscles and tissue, and once the work is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures.
Long Lasting Results
A rhytidectomy is designed to give you a more youthful appearance, and the results can be long lasting. If you are interested in a lower rhytidectomy, a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons is the best next step.
Neck Lift Recovery
Take it easy for the first week or so after your surgery.
Most people feel well enough to return to work within 10 days.
Avoid strenuous activity and exposure to sunlight for at least six weeks.