Aging gracefully is a goal for many, but sometimes the natural loss of skin elasticity, volume, and muscle tone can leave us feeling less confident about our appearance. While a facelift and neck lift are both excellent procedures on their own, combining them can provide more comprehensive and natural-looking rejuvenation. If you’re considering facial plastic surgery, here’s what you should know about undergoing a facelift and neck lift together.
Why Combine a Facelift and Neck Lift?
A facelift primarily focuses on lifting and tightening the lower two-thirds of the face, reducing deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and jowls. A neck lift, on the other hand, targets excess skin and muscle laxity in the neck, eliminating the “turkey neck” or double chin appearance.
When performed together, these procedures:
- Provide a more balanced and youthful look by addressing both the face and neck simultaneously.
- Reduce the risk of an obvious contrast between a rejuvenated face and an aging neck.
- Minimize downtime, as recovery is combined into one healing period rather than undergoing two separate surgeries.
- May be more cost-effective, as anesthesia and surgical facility fees are consolidated.
Ideal Candidates for a Combined Procedure
You may be a good candidate for a facelift and neck lift if you:
- Have sagging skin, deep creases, or jowls in the lower face.
- Notice visible signs of aging in the neck, such as excess skin or banding.
- Are in good general health and don’t smoke.
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome.
Consulting with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon is essential to determine whether combining these procedures is right for you.
The Procedure: What to Expect
A combined facelift and neck lift is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The process generally involves:
1. Incisions:
- Facelift incisions are usually made along the hairline and around the ears to discreetly reposition underlying facial tissues and remove excess skin.
- Neck lift incisions are typically placed behind the ears and under the chin to tighten the neck muscles and remove loose skin.
2. Lifting & Tightening:
- The underlying muscles and connective tissue are lifted to restore a youthful facial contour.
- The skin is carefully redraped for a natural appearance, avoiding an overly tight or pulled look.
3. Fat Redistribution & Removal:
- Liposuction may be used in the neck area to remove excess fat under the chin.
- Volume restoration with fat grafting or dermal fillers may be incorporated for enhanced results.
4. Closure & Recovery:
- Incisions are closed with sutures, and bandages are applied to aid healing.
- Most patients experience some swelling and bruising, which improves within two weeks.
Recovery and Results
- Downtime: Expect to take two to three weeks off from work and social activities.
- Swelling & Bruising: Peak swelling occurs in the first 5-7 days, with gradual improvement over the following weeks.
- Final Results: Visible improvement can be seen by 4-6 weeks, with final results settling in after 3-6 months.
Your surgeon will provide aftercare instructions, including avoiding strenuous activities, sleeping with your head elevated, and following a proper skincare routine.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Like any surgery, a facelift and neck lift carry some risks, including:
- Temporary numbness or tightness
- Minor scarring (which fades over time)
- Infection or complications from anesthesia (rare)
Choosing an experienced facial plastic surgeon significantly reduces these risks and ensures optimal results.
Conclusion:
Combining a facelift and neck lift can be an excellent way to achieve a smoother, firmer, and more youthful facial profile in one procedure. If you’re considering this treatment, consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and develop a personalized plan for facial rejuvenation.
Would you like to learn more about your options? Schedule a consultation with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon today!
