Neck Lift
A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is used to remove or lessen excess skin or fat deposits along the chin and neck area. This rejuvenating procedure is done within a day, and typically takes two to three weeks for the swelling to go down.
Neck lifts are used primarily in candidates who do not require a full face lift, but would like to treat issues such as a double chin or a neck “wattle.” Patients who are older, have problems with skin elasticity, or have hereditary features that can be treated with a neck lift are also good candidates.
The neck lift is more invasive than a submentoplasty, in that it treats the whole chin and neck area. It generally takes two hours to complete the procedure, which includes liposuction and skin removal. At the patient’s discretion, general anesthesia or IV sedation are administered for the length of the procedure. The incision typically starts at the front of the ear, and wraps beneath to the posterior hairline. This is not always the case, as we use the patient’s individual facial structure and needs to determine the length and location of the incision. After the excess skin and fat is removed, the incision is closed with sutures or skin glue.
The recovery process may include a drain tube to allow excess blood or fluid to be released, but may only require a bandage to minimize swelling. It is important that ice is not applied to the area, as it may impede the recovery process.
Submentoplasty
A submentoplasty differs from a neck lift in that it is a much less invasive procedure that focuses specifically on the chin and upper neck area. Rather than removing excess skin, the submentoplasty removes excess fat deposits beneath the chin that are not reached by weight loss.
The ideal patient for a submentoplasty is one who does not require a full face or neck lift, but may have a double chin or fat deposits along the jawline. Often, younger patients with resilient skin elasticity can still possess excess fat beneath the chin, despite being a healthy weight, and submentoplasty can be used to quickly and effectively treat it. A submentoplasty does not restructure the lower half of the face, but can reverse the appearance of aging.
The submentoplasty is a much quicker procedure, typically 45 minutes, and requires less recovery time than a neck lift. As it requires a smaller incision, patients can expect fewer sutures and easier aftercare guidelines. Patients can expect swelling for only one to two weeks with a submentoplasty.
Our Services
During your consultation with Dr. Saigal, we can assess and administer either one of these facial rejuvenation procedures based on your individual needs. Our Mini-Lift procedure is also a viable option for those seeking a more minor treatment, which uses liposuction on excess neck skin. We also offer non-invasive treatments for wrinkles, loose skin elasticity, and skin folds.