How Long Does Tightness Last After Neck Lift Surgery?

Neck lift surgery is one of the most popular anti-aging cosmetic procedures performed today, helping men and women alike to take up to a decade off their appearance. Even younger patients can benefit from the transformative capabilities of neck lift surgery – from removing stubborn double chin fat to smoothing a loose neck after weight loss. While most patients are able to return to work and other activities within a week or two after neck lift surgery, some symptoms and side effects may linger for longer. In particular, a feeling of tightness after neck lift surgery is fairly common. In this blog, Beverly Hills/Las Vegas board-certified Oculo Facial Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Shoib Myint of Myint Oculo Facial Plastic Surgery discusses what patients can expect after neck lift surgery, including how long a tight sensation may last and when they’ll begin to notice their slim, sexy new neckline taking shape.

What is the purpose of neck lift surgery?

Neck lift surgery primarily aims to slim and firm the neck through the removal of loose, excess skin and the tightening of weakened neck muscles. Most men and women who undergo neck lift surgery have developed a hanging neck – sometimes referred to as a “turkey neck” – due to aging or weight loss. In many cases, neck lift surgery is paired with neck liposuction to reduce stubborn pockets of fat that have accumulated in the neck and created the appearance of a double chin.

The process of neck lift surgery

Oftentimes, a neck lift can be performed using local anesthesia and sedation only, helping to reduce the risks, costs, and recovery time associated with general anesthesia. To begin, Dr. Myint will create small incisions in inconspicuous areas, like beneath the chin or behind the ears, which helps to minimize the visibility of resultant scarring. Through these incisions, Dr. Myint will lift, tighten, and reinforce neck muscles responsible for neck banding and trim away hanging neck skin. The remaining skin will be smoothly draped over the newly sculpted neck contour and secured with sutures.

What are the side effects of neck lift surgery?

Following neck lift surgery, patients can expect the following:

• Bruising
• Swelling
• Soreness or discomfort
• A feeling of tightness in the neck, chin, and/or lower face

Generally speaking, patients are usually able to return to light desk work and household chores within about 7 – 10 days after neck lift surgery, though bruising and swelling will remain. After about 4 – 6 weeks, the majority of these symptoms will have resolved, and patients will begin to see their results taking shape.

Is it normal to have tightness months after neck lift surgery?

Yes. A sensation of tightness is very common after neck lift surgery and is associated with the repositioning of the neck muscles and the removal and tightening of the skin. While most patients report feeling back to “normal” (with respect to neck tightness) after about 2 – 3 weeks, this sensation can actually last up to a year. While most cases of tightness after neck lift surgery are normal and harmless, Dr. Myint closely monitors patients during their postoperative period and can address any ongoing or uncomfortable symptoms that may be present.

How will I look after a neck lift?

With virtually no visible scarring and the possibility of dramatically smoothing and slimming the neckline, the vast majority of patients are thrilled with their neck lift results and feel more confident than ever. And by maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, the results of neck lift surgery can last for a decade or longer.

Look like you did ten years ago with a neck lift in Beverly Hills, CA

Has weight loss, aging, or sun exposure taken a toll on your neck and aged you more than you’d like? If so, neck lift surgery may be the solution for restoring the slimmer and more youthful neckline you once had. To learn more about the results that may be possible for you with neck lift surgery, browse these neck lift before-and-after photos and schedule your consultation at either of Myint Oculo Facial Plastic Surgery’s convenient locations in Beverly Hills, CA or Las Vegas, NV with board-certified Oculo Facial Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Shoib Myint today.