If you’re considering plastic surgery that could give you a more youthful appearance, a facelift or a neck lift may be on your list. These procedures can be performed either separately or in conjunction with one another depending on your needs and goals. Read on to learn more about the difference between a facelift and a neck lift and what to expect with each procedure.
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a procedure that could smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of sagging, lines, wrinkles, and other hallmarks of aging. With the traditional facelift procedure, the skin is lifted off the face, the muscles and tissues beneath tightened, and the skin replaced and smoothed.
For the facelift procedure, you’ll be given general anesthesia before the surgeon makes incisions that begin around the ear and travel up across the hairline. He will perform the procedure, removing fat and excess tissue if necessary, before closing the incisions. Because of the placement of the openings, there is usually minimal obvious scarring.
While the procedure for a neck lift is similar, this procedure lifts and tightens the skin around the jaw and of the neck. The incisions for a neck lift are made behind the ear and extend to the lower scalp. A neck lift is often a good choice for patients who are still pleased with the appearance of the upper part of their face, but are bothered by jowls, a “turkey wattle” appearance, or neck wrinkles and excess skin.
For both surgeries, you must be in good health, not be a smoker, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. A full consultation with a plastic surgeon can help you understand what to expect from the procedure after healing is complete.
Recovery for each type of surgery is also similar, although a slightly longer recovery from a facelift may be expected. In both cases, you’ll be bandaged and have tubes in place that will remove excess blood and fluid from the area as you heal. It is typically several weeks before you are able to return to normal activities.
Choosing between a facelift and a neck lift or deciding to have both procedures is completely dependent upon the results you’d like to see after having the surgery. The extent of aging that is present on your skin plays a role in which type of procedure is best for you. Contact Real Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery today to discuss your options with Dr. Stephen Salerno.
