Neck Lift

Your neck may age before your face ages or losing a lot of weight can make the neck look "fleshy" or it can lose its definition and for some it's just genetics that gives us that "turkey neck". If you are not happy and have become self-conscious about the appearance of your neck, you may want to consider a neck lift.

A neck lift is designed to reduce the look of loose, sagging skin to improve the appearance of the neck and under the jaw line. This procedure, however, will not rejuvenate the facial area. A neck lift can be performed alone or in conjunction with liposuction of the neck, a facelift and/or chin augmentation.

A neck lift is a combination of a cervicoplasty which is the procedure to remove the excess skin and a platysmaplasty to alter or tighten the neck platysma muscles. This combined with neck liposuction can also give some patients the appearance of lost weight.

Is a Neck Lift right for me?

A neck lift can be performed on patients above 18 years of age who feel the need to improve their necks. Typically, patients range between the ages of 30 and 70. A neck lift is a good option for those with excess fat and /or skin in the neck, a "turkey neck" or retrognathia (a receding jaw that makes a person look like they have no chin or jaw line)

Neck lift surgery is a good option for you if:

You are physically healthy
You have a positive outlook and specific, but realistic goals in mind for the improvement of your appearance
You don't smoke

What to expect during your consultation with Dr. Markmann

The safety and success of your neck lift procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. Dr. Markmann will ask a number of questions about your health, lifestyle and desires.

Be prepared to discuss:

Previous surgeries
Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs

Dr. Markmann may also:

Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
Discuss the options available to you for a neck lift
Examine and measure different parts of your face
Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
Discuss likely outcomes of a neck lift and any risks or potential complications

Prior to surgery, you may be asked to:

Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
Take photographs for your medical record
Stop smoking well in advance of surgery
Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding

Special instructions you receive will cover:

What to do on the night before and morning of surgery
The use of anesthesia during your brow lift
Post-operative care and follow-up

Dr. Markmann will also discuss where your procedure will be performed. A neck lift may be performed in an accredited office-based surgical center, outpatient or ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital.

If your neck lift is performed on an outpatient basis, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.

What can I expect with neck lift surgery?

A neck lift typically takes about two to three hours. If you are doing this in conjunction with a facelift or other surgeries, the time will vary. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia on an out-patient basis.

The decision to have a neck lift is extremely personal and you'll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable.

Dr. Markmann will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo and any risks and potential complications.

The risks may include:

Unfavorable scarring
Bleeding (hematoma)
Infection
Poor wound healing
Anesthesia risks
Blood clots
Numbness or other changes in skin sensation or intense itching
Changes in skin sensation
Fluid accumulation
Pain, which may persist
Skin contour irregularities
Skin discoloration and swelling
Possibility of surgery to do revisions

It's very important to ask Dr. Markmann questions about your neck lift procedure. It's natural to feel some anxiety, whether it's excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don't be shy about discussing these feelings with Dr. Markmann.

When you go home

If you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heart beats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any of these complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.

The practice of medicine and surgery is not an exact science. Although good results are expected, there is no guarantee. In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single surgical procedure. Another surgery may be necessary.

Be careful

Following Dr. Markmann's instructions is a key component to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Dr. Markmann will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.

How much will neck lift surgery cost?

Cost is always a consideration in elective surgery. Prices for neck lift surgeries can vary widely. A surgeon's cost may vary based on his or her experience as well as geographic office location.

We do offer financing plans, so be sure to ask if you are interested.

A written quote given at the time of your consultation will include:

Surgeon's fee
Hospital or surgical facility costs
Anesthesia fees
Post-operative garments

Additional Fees:

Prescription medications
Pre-op Physical and Lab Work

Your satisfaction involves more than a fee

When choosing a plastic surgeon for brow lift surgery, remember that the surgeon's experience and your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the surgery.

Most health insurance does not cover cosmetic surgery or its complications.