The neck is an often-overlooked part of the body that frequently ages quicker than a person's face. A neck lift procedure can reverse these effects and give you confidence in your appearance.
Even though a neck lift procedure is elective surgery, you still need to prepare carefully. This article will review how to prepare for plastic surgery, so you'll know what to do — and not to do — before surgery. We'll also answer the question, "What is a neck lift procedure?" and provide helpful post-surgery tips.
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What Is a Neck Lift Procedure?
Also called a platysmaplasty or neck rejuvenation, a neck lift procedure is one of the most common types of cosmetic surgery. More than 160,000 neck lift procedures are performed annually, according to a 2020 report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
During a neck lift procedure, your cosmetic surgeon will take up loose neck muscles and remove excess skin to reduce what's commonly called a turkey neck and provide a more youthful appearance. You may receive local anesthesia or general anesthesia during your neck lift. A hospital, medical center or office-based surgical facility is the usual setting for a neck lift procedure.
A neck lift isn't for everyone. Kybella injections or liposuction might be a better choice if you're most concerned about the excess fat that causes a double chin.
Preparing for Plastic Surgery
A consultation with your cosmetic surgeon will be one of the first steps you take in preparing for plastic surgery. It's essential to be honest with your doctor during this one-on-one meeting. Be sure to share all your concerns and goals in case other facial surgery procedures are necessary to achieve your desired results.
When preparing for plastic surgery, you'll want to tell the doctor about all of the medications, supplements and vitamins you use since these can affect blood flow and create other problems. You also should provide information concerning your overall health and any medical conditions, like diabetes, that you might have.
Don't be afraid to ask your doctor questions about your treatment plan. You want to be as informed as possible before your neck lift procedure.
What to Do Before Surgery for a Neck Lift
Your doctor will tell you what to do before surgery. They will recommend several steps to take before your neck lift procedure, and you'll want to follow these instructions closely. Overall, healthy living plays a key role in a successful surgery and recovery. Plastic surgeons generally provide the following directions:
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Don't focus on cutting calories. Instead, on a healthy balance of fruits, vegetables, proteins, carbohydrates and fats. This approach will help speed your recovery.
2. Exercise Within Reason
Plastic surgeons usually recommend against starting or amping up a rigorous workout regimen before a neck lift procedure. Rather, they suggest maintaining your routine and avoiding activities that could lead to injuries.
3. Plan for Your Recovery
Stock up on post-surgery supplies like towels, gauze, ice packs, a thermometer and pillows to keep your head upright and comfortable.
4. Get Help
As with any surgery, you'll need a responsible adult, like a family member, to drive you home after your neck lift procedure. You'll also need someone to assist you for the first 24 hours after your surgery.
5. Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing
On the day of your surgery, wear a loose top that buttons down the front since you won't be able to pull a shirt over your head after your neck lift procedure.
What Not to Do Before Surgery for a Neck Lift
The list of what not to do before surgery isn't quite as long, but it's just as important. Generally, plastic surgeons recommend that you should not:
1. Drink Alcohol
Because even small amounts of alcohol can contribute to blood thinning during surgery, don't drink alcohol for two weeks before your neck lift procedure.
2. Consume Sugary, Fatty Foods
You don't want to go on a crash diet, but it's helpful to swap in high-quality foods for any sugary snacks and fast food that you might usually consume.
3. Eat or Drink
Because of possible side effects from the anesthesia, you'll want to stop drinking and eating the night before your neck lift procedure. General guidelines say to stop at midnight or eight hours before surgery. Ask your doctor for a specific recommendation.
4. Wear Jewelry or Make-up
On the day of your neck lift, make sure you're not wearing any make-up, lotions, body piercings, contact lenses or jewelry. These could potentially interfere with your neck lift procedure.
What to Do After Your Neck Lift Procedure
Once your neck lift procedure is complete, your doctor will have a set of post-surgery instructions you'll want to follow closely. You'll usually need to:
- Keep your head still and elevated above your heart.
- Contact your medical team if any sign of infection appears.
- Continue to avoid alcohol for another one or two weeks.
- Hold off on exercising and other rigorous activities.
- Return for all scheduled post-surgery doctor's appointments.
Trust Dr. Adam Basner With Your Neck Lift Procedure
Now that we've covered the basics of preparing for plastic surgery, you're ready for the next step. Dr. Basner is an acknowledged leader among board-certified cosmetic surgeons. You can rely on him for the neck lift procedure that will bring back your confidence and make you look as young as you feel. Contact him for a one-on-one consultation today.
Articles Related to Neck Lift Procedures
Turn Your Turkey Neck Into A Beautiful Swan Neck Learn what can be redone to regain a youthful-looking neck.
Kybella vs. Necklift Surgery Discover the difference between a neck lift procedure and Kybella injections.