Neck Lift Surgery Sydney by Dr Kernohan
Excess neck skin can change the appearance of the face. A neck lift or lower facelift surgery can alter the facial appearance and contour the appearance chin.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Michael Kernohan is a experienced surgeon in Sydney and performs facial surgery in Sydney’s Southwest Suburbs and the Southern Highlands.
CLICK to Download Dr Michael Kernohan’s Face & Necklift Surgery Guide
Why Have a Neck Lift?
The skin on your neck is thin and delicate and as a result it is more prone to the effects of ageing, sun damage and gravity. It is one of the first areas on the body that shows the signs of ageing. This can leave some of us with loose skin around the jawline and chin, as well as fine lines and wrinkles around the neck.
The neck is an integral part of your overall appearance. A neck lift can remove excess loose skin, and alleviate lines, folds and wrinkles on neck.
It may be a good option for people whose neck has aged faster than their face and are looking to refresh the appearance of their neck. Some people may choose to undergo a facelift, blepharoplasty or brow lift either before, during or after a neck lift for a more comprehensive result.
Benefits of Neck Lift Surgery
Let’s look at some of the potential benefits of neck lift surgery:
- Wrinkles and fine lines – Neck lift surgery can reduce wrinkles and fine lines that have formed on your neck over the years
- Tightens underlying muscles – Neck lift surgery not only tightens the skin of your neck but also works on tightening the muscles underneath
- Define jawline/ chin – The procedure can remove loose skin around the chin and jawline helping to increase the visible definition of the jawline and chin.
- Platysmal bands – Platysmal bands are common and nearly all of us start to develop them in our late twenties. Neck lift surgery can help soften the appearance of these bands.
Preparing for a Neck Lift Procedure
If you are planning to undergo neck lift surgery, you will be asked to:
- Get medical testing done as recommended by your surgeon
- Adjust your current medications as per the instructions of your surgeon
- Quit smoking for at least six weeks before getting a neck lift done
- Do not take aspirin, herbal supplements, or any anti-inflammatory drugs
- Arrange for someone to drive you home on the day of the surgery
- Take at least a week’s time off from work to rest and recover
Neck Surgery Procedure – The Surgical Aproach
The neck lift will begin with an in-depth consultation with Dr Kernohan. You will discuss your concerns and expectations. During the consultation, you will be guided regarding the treatment, Dr Kernohan will examine your neck and the quality of your skin and will discuss what results you can realistically achieve with surgery. Based on all these points, he will formulate a unique treatment plan that meets your aesthetic goals.
Neck lift surgery can take up to 2 or 3 hours. The neck lift surgery itself varies from person to person depending on their unique concerns and needs. The surgery is performed with the patient under general anaesthesia. Generally, the surgeon will tighten the underlying muscles, trim excess skin and fat, and reshape the overall neck structure. The goal is to elongate the submental plane (area under the chin) and achieve a firmer neck contour.
Dr Kernohan will close the incisions with absorbable sutures and place a bandage on top for added security.
Recovery after a Neck Surgery
As the surgery is performed with the help of general anaesthesia, you will feel the effects of the anaesthesia for some hours after the surgery. Make sure that you arrange for someone to drive you home in advance.
In some cases, a small tube will be attached to your neck to collect extra fluid under your skin. You will also have sutures and a tight bandage wrapped around your neck. Swelling can take several weeks to subside.
You will need at least a week off from work to rest and recover. Make sure you have someone to help you around with the house chores during this time. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions regarding the recovery phase.
Instructions to Follow after Neck Surgery
- Make sure to wear your bandage for the first week of the surgery. Take care of your dressings as per the instructions given by your surgeon
- Be sure to take medications regularly to help with the discomfort and fight infections. Do not skip the medications
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain. Avoid putting ice directly on your skin. Wrap it around with the help of a towel
- Keep your head slightly elevated while lying down
- Do not opt for long showers, steam baths, visit saunas, and dive into swimming pools for at least the first few weeks after the surgery
- Stay clear of strenuous activities for at least two weeks after the surgery
- If your job is physically demanding, you should take at least two weeks off. Ask your surgeon before returning back to work
- Do not smoke or consume alcohol as it can hinder the healing process
- Do not take blood-thinning medications as they can worsen the bruising
- Go for all the follow-up appointments without fail
- Rest as much as you possibly can and eat a healthy diet
Risks and Concerns Associated with Neck Lift Surgery
Like every other surgery, a neck lift also comes with potential risks and complications. There are also common side effects following the procedure that typically occur. Some of the side effects include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tightness and tingling sensation
- Burning and pulling sensation
- Temporary numbness
These side effects often dissipate without treatment after the first few weeks post-op.
If you want more details, please check out Dr Kernohan’s potential risks and complications page.
Are You a Suitable Candidate for Neck Lift?
You may be a suitable candidate for a neck lift if you:
- Have realistic expectations from the treatment
- Are in generally good health
- Are a non-smoker or can quit smoking for a specified duration
- Do not drink or are willing to give it up for some time
- Are free from any medical conditions that can hinder the healing process
Neck Lift Prices & Cost – How Much Is a Neck Lift in Sydney?
Neck lift surgery in Sydney, Australia can cost between $14,000 to $22,000. The neck lift cost depends on the experience and qualifications of your surgeon, their location, their hospital facility and other factors.
Find out more on Dr. Kernohan’s pricing page.
Will Medicare Cover Neck Lift?
No, a neck lift is an elective plastic surgery procedure and Medicare will not cover it. You will have to pay for it yourself.
Find out more about payment options.
Video: Who is an ideal candidate for submental liposuction?
How to Find the Right Neck Lift Surgeon in Sydney
Make sure that the surgeon you choose is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and has years of experience performing neck lift surgeries. Research the credentials and experience of the surgeon thoroughly.
Make sure to take your time in doing thorough research before you decide on the right surgeon. An informed decision is a smart decision, no matter how much time it takes.
Ask Your Neck Lift Surgeon the Right Questions
It is important to ask the right questions during the initial consultation with your plastic surgeon:
- How many neck lift surgeries have you performed in the past?
- Which surgical facility do you recommend for my surgery?
- How much will the neck lift surgery cost me?
- What are the potential risks and complications involved with neck lift surgery?
- How do you plan to handle any risks and complications?
- What if something goes wrong during the surgery?
- How involved you will be during the recovery phase?
- What if I am not satisfied with the results of the surgery?
- What if something goes wrong during the recovery phase?
Trust Your Gut
Now, that you have done your research, read enough, visited the surgeon, asked all the right questions, it is time to trust your instinct.
Neck Lift FAQs – Questions about Neck Surgery
Here is a list of frequently asked questions about the neck lift surgery:
