Neck Lift in Platysmaplasty in Duluth, GA

One of the most common reasons for neck lift surgery is the unattractive “turkey neck,” which is due to loose and sagging platysma muscle.  A neck lift removes excess sagging skin under your jawline and on your neck. At Prima Center for Plastic Surgery in Duluth, the most advanced techniques are used in cosmetic neck surgery to create a smoother, more defined neck and profile. If you are unsure if neck lift surgery is for you, a consultation with one of our highly talented, board-certified plastic surgeons will help you pick the best treatment option. Some individuals may be better candidates for less invasive procedures such as liposuction of the neck or chin augmentation. Neck lift costs can vary based on your specific treatment plan.

There are many different techniques that can be used to perform a neck lift.  At the time of your consultation you will be examined.  There are several factors which must be evaluated in order to determine the right procedure These factors may include the following:

• The quality of the skin of the neck including elasticity
• The amount of redundant skin of the neck
• Banding of the neck due to separation of the muscles of the neck (platysmal bands).

If the skin and muscle of the neck are in good condition with good elasticity then liposuction alone may be an option

If there is minimal laxity of the skin of the neck combined with a separation of the platysma muscles in the midline a submental (under chin) incision can be utilized.  In this operation a 2 inch incision is made under the chin and the skin of the neck is mobilized.  The muscles are then sutured together creating a nice foundation.  The skin is then allowed to redrape on its own.  This lesser procedure is often combined with laser resurfacing or with interal tightening using the Nd:YAG laser.  If you are a candidate for this procedure you may be presented with this option.  This procedure is typically performed in our office operating room under a light oral sedation and local anesthesia.  Recovery is relatively rapid.  You can expect to wear an elastic neck band for the first 2 to 3 days after the procedure.  

If there is excessive laxity of the skin of the neck then a full neck lift can be performed.  This may require incisions behind the ears or in more extensive cases a lower facelift may be needed. 

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient surgery at an accredited surgical clinic. The duration of the surgery usually takes around 2 hours, although it may vary depending on the case. Bruising and swelling will be visible after the surgery, but this will subside in the few short days following the procedure. Initially, patients will feel tightness and numbness. Once the neck adjusts to its new position, patients will notice a more relaxed feeling and a beautiful surgical result. It can take up to 6 months for the final results to appear.

Surgery is the only way to remove loose skin, especially if it is loose enough to hang and droop. Therefore, a neck lift is the only solution when it comes to redefining an individual’s neck to create a strong contour. While there are some very good skin tightening laser treatments on the market today, surgery is still the best option.

There is minimal scarring with this procedure. Since the incision is placed under the chin and near the ears, the scarring is usually hidden. A skilled facial surgeon will take great effort to minimize scarring as much as possible.

This depends on the situation and the amount of loose and sagging skin that is present. Some weight loss patients are young and may require a neck lift at a young age (for example, those between 20-30). For older patients who are combatting loose skin due to aging, the most common age is between 50-70.

During the initial consultation, it may be brought up that in addition to a neck lift, the patient may also benefit from another procedure, such as a facelift or a chin implant. It is common for these additional procedures to be combined to achieve the patient’s desired contours and aesthetic goals.