Sagging skin, deep wrinkles and the appearance of loose skin below the chin are all signs of an aging neck. Dr. Ellen performs different types of neck lift surgeries in Birmingham, MI that can help improve the appearance of your neck for a more youthful appearance.

What Is A Neck Lift In Birmingham?

A neck lift is a surgical procedure to address signs of aging around the jawline and neck area. During a neck lift, incisions are strategically placed under the chin and/or behind the ears to tighten up neck muscles that have become loose over the years. Patients with greater laxity may require a longer incision behind the ears. Excess skin and tissue are then removed to eliminate sagging. This is all done under sedation or anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.

It is common to combine a neck lift procedure with other cosmetic surgeries such as a facelift, chin lift or any procedure that improves the jawline, jowls and cheek area, which might involve liposuction.

Who can Benefit from a Neck Lift?

Those who experience signs of aging under the chin and in the neck area with sagging skin, abnormal contours due to muscle banding, excess fat under the skin, or the appearance of jowls can benefit from a neck lift. Many candidates choose to have a neck lift alone if they are not experiencing aging in the upper face yet. If the middle or upper face is an area of concern as well, candidates might choose to add a facelift or brow lift.

Are There Other Procedures To Improve The Appearance Of My Neck?

Excess neck skin removal (called cervicoplasty) is performed by making an incision under your chin and behind the ears. Dr. Ellen will then cut back and lift the skin, which will be secured with permanent sutures or a special type of permanent adhesive glue.

Another neck lift procedure, platysmaplasty, is performed to reduce the banded appearance of the neck. During the procedure, incisions are made under the chin or behind the ears, or both. Dr. Ellen will then insert a tiny instrument to either remove a portion of specific neck muscles or realign them. This tightens the middle area of the neck. As with a cervicoplasty, she will suture areas of the muscles in order to clasp them in the best position.

How Long Is Recovery From A Neck Lift If I Live In Detroit?

After a neck lift procedure, your neck, jaw and ears may be bruised and continue to swell for up to 10 days. Oral pain medications can be administered to reduce pain, but ice should not be applied, as this can compromise blood flow to the area. Topical antibiotic ointment is used on incision lines. Severe pain or abnormal symptoms should be reported to Dr. Ellen immediately.

During recovery, the head should be kept elevated and any bending or twisting of the neck should be avoided. Dr. Ellen will provide all other post-op care instructions and restrictions that should be followed closely to ensure a successful healing process.

If you are considering a neck lift, we encourage you to contact board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ellen, for a consultation at our Bloomfield Hills, MI office. Dr. Ellen and her staff are eager to answer your questions about a neck lift in the Birmingham, MI area. Her office is conveniently located just 6 miles North of Royal Oak and 10 miles East of West Bloomfield.  Please send us an email or call our office today at 248-220-6760 to schedule a consultation.