How a Neck Lift Can Will Help Fight Against Signs of Aging

If you’re hoping to reduce the visible signs of aging, a neck lift could be the solution. This surgical treatment removes excess fat and tightens the skin on your lower face, chin, and neck, smoothing away wrinkles and creases and restoring your youthful contours.  

At Advanced Specialty Associates in Baxter and St. Paul, Minnesota, our team of cosmetic providers evaluates your medical history and overall physical health as well as your aesthetic goals to recommend the right treatment for your needs. 

If a neck lift is right for you, you can expect natural-looking results that take years off your appearance. Here’s a closer look.

What happens during a neck lift?

A neck lift (platysmaplasty) is an effective way to create a more defined and youthful appearance on the lower half of the face. During the surgery, your provider keeps you comfortable using anesthesia. Once you’re resting, your neck lift begins. 

First, your provider makes small incisions near your ear and under your chin. Your surgeon then tightens the muscles in your neck while removing the excess skin and fat that accumulate as you age. 

Once the procedure is finished, your provider closes the incision and a bandage is applied around your chin and head. You can expect some bruising and mild swelling and discomfort for a few weeks after your treatment. 

As the swelling goes away, the contours of your new neck and lower face will begin to appear. Keep in mind that full results can take up to three months to become visible as your swelling resolves completely.  

How can a neck lift reduce the visible signs of aging?

At Advanced Specialty Associates, our providers use neck lifts to reduce many visible signs of aging. Some of the ways a neck lift turns back the hands of time include:

• Lifting the sagging neck skin under your chin
• Improving neck contours by tightening aging muscles
• Eliminating sagging skin near your mouth (jowls)
• Removing submental fullness (double chin) by excising excess fat and skin
• Restoring a youthful, trim profile

Keep in mind that while a neck lift can provide amazing results, it can’t stop your skin and body from aging. However, by following your Advanced Specialty Associates provider’s recommendations, you can expect the results of your neck lift to last up to 15 years. 

How can I get the most from my neck lift?

To make sure your neck lift results last as long as possible, be sure to do the following:

• Avoid smoking and using other nicotine products
• Stay away from alcohol 
• Exercise regularly to boost circulation
• Drink lots of water to keep skin soft and smooth
• Wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days    

To help you meet your aesthetic goals, your provider may also recommend additional cosmetic procedures, such as a face lift, brow lift, chin augmentation, or facial fat transfer. 

To find out more about neck lifts and to see if one can restore your youthful appearance, schedule an appointment online or over the phone with Advanced Specialty Associates today.