Neck Lift in Sydney
A neck lift is a surgical cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of the neck by addressing excess skin, tightening loose neck muscles and reducing visible signs of ageing. Potentially creating a more youthful and contoured neck and jawline.
At ICCM, we offer neck lift surgery in Sydney with personalised treatment plans to help our patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Our experienced team aims to achieve natural-looking outcomes while ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift targets the neck region by tightening the platysma muscles and removing excess skin and fat. This procedure addresses ageing-related concerns and may restore definition to the neck and jawline.
The platysma bands are vertical folds caused by the separation and thickening of the platysma neck muscle, which runs from the collarbone to the face.
Over time, these muscles lose tone and elasticity, leading to sagging skin and a loss of youthful contours. A neck lift aims to restore this area by repositioning muscles, removing loose tissue, and creating a smoother, more youthful neck profile.
Neck lift surgery may offer a variety of benefits such as creating a more youthful and defined jawline.
Potential Benefits of a Neck Lift
Neck lift surgery offers a variety of aesthetic and functional benefits, which may include:
- Tightening Underlying Muscles: A neck lift addresses the weakened or separated platysma neck muscles, which may restore a smoother neck profile.
- Reducing Platysmal Bands: Minimise the appearance of vertical folds that can make the neck look aged.
- Removing Excess Skin: Improve sagging loose neck skin to improve the overall contour of the neck area and enhance the neck’s overall appearance.
- Improving Jawline Definition: Sharpen the angle between the chin and neck, creating a more youthful and defined jawline.
- Minimising Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Smooth the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and creases in the neck region.
- Providing Long-Lasting Results: With proper care, the results of a neck lift may last 10–15 years.
- Natural-Looking Outcomes: By tightening the neck muscles and repositioning the skin, the results are tailored to look natural and proportionate.
- Customisable Enhancements: Can be combined with a brow lift or paired with MACS (mid plane face lift).
Who is a Good Candidate for a Neck Lift?
Ideal candidates for neck lift surgery may include individuals who:
- Have loose skin or wrinkles in the neck region caused by ageing or weight loss.
- Exhibit platysmal bands or vertical folds in the neck.
- Are in good overall health and are non-smokers.
- Desire improved neck contours and a defined jawline.
A consultation with our team will determine your suitability for the procedure and help you set realistic expectations.
Neck Lift Cost in Sydney
The cost of a neck lift at ICCM in Sydney varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the extent of correction required, and whether it is combined with other treatments such as a facelift or liposuction. A detailed cost estimate will be provided during your consultation, tailored to your specific goals and needs.
For more information about neck lift costs or to schedule your consultation, please contact our team today.
The Neck Lift Procedure at ICCM
Step 1: The Consultation
This session is designed to assess your concerns, discuss your goals, and create a personalised surgical plan.
What to Expect During Your Consultation:
- A comprehensive evaluation of your neck and facial structure to identify issues such as loose skin, excess fat, and platysmal bands.
- Discussion of your medical history, including any past surgeries, current medications, and lifestyle habits like smoking or drinking.
- Exploration of your goals to ensure realistic expectations for the neck lift procedure.
- Review of potential risks, benefits, and recovery expectations.
If a neck lift isn’t the ideal option for your concerns, alternative treatments may be recommended. This consultation allows us to tailor the procedure to your specific needs.
Step 2: The Neck Lift Procedure
Our neck lift performed in Sydney is a comprehensive procedure aimed at addressing all concerns in the neck region, including sagging skin, muscle laxity, and fat deposits.
What is Involved in Neck Lift Surgery?
- Incisions: Small incisions are placed strategically under the chin to minimise scarring.
- Fat Removal and Redistribution: Unwanted fat deposits are removed via liposculpture, and fat may be redistributed to improve neck contour.
- Platysma Muscle Tightening: The platysma neck muscles are tightened and repositioned to create a supportive "muscle sling," addressing platysmal bands and vertical folds.
- Skin Adjustment and Excision: Loose, sagging skin is removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned to ensure a smooth, youthful appearance.
- Closure: Fine sutures are used to close the incisions, and care is taken to minimise visible scars.
The procedure typically takes 2–3 hours to complete, although additional procedures may extend the duration.
Step 3: Recovery After Neck Lift Surgery
Recovery from a neck lift is a gradual process that requires following post-operative instructions to ensure the best results.
What to Expect During Recovery:
- Initial Healing: Swelling and bruising are common during the first 1–2 weeks. A compression garment may be provided to reduce swelling and support the healing process.
- Bandages and Drains: In some cases, bandages are applied and small drainage tubes may be used to remove excess fluid from the surgical site.
- Medications: Mild discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain relief medications, and antibiotics may be given to help reduce the risk of infection.
- Activity Restrictions: Most patients can resume light activities within 7–10 days, but strenuous activities should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
- Final Results: Swelling gradually subsides, and incision lines fade over time. Results, including improved neck contour and a defined jawline, become fully apparent within a few months.
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns during recovery.
What is the Result of a Neck Lift Procedure?
After undergoing a surgical neck lift, it is important to note that final results take time to become fully visible. Initially, you may experience swelling and bruising, which gradually subsides over several weeks. Once the swelling has diminished and the incision sites have healed, you can enjoy a rejuvenated appearance.
Key results may include:
- A sharper angle between the chin and neck, creating a youthful profile.
- A more defined jawline with tighter, smoother neck skin.
- The underlying platysma muscle repositioned to restore support and a natural contour.
- The elevated position of the skin and muscles contributes to long-lasting improvements.
For patients seeking more dramatic facial rejuvenation, a surgical neck lift can be combined with a MACS facelift or other complementary procedures. During your consultation, your doctor will assess your goals and recommend the best course of treatment to achieve your desired outcome.
After undergoing a neck lift, the final results take time to become fully visible.
Dr Tony Prochazka
MBBS, FFMACCS / Cosmetic Doctor
Dr Tony Prochazka has over 20 years of experience with such procedures as Gynaecomastia, Blepharoplasty, Thread Lift, Neck Lift, Breast Augmentation, Liposculpture, etc. Dr Tony was the Inaugural Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, and a former vice–president of the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia.
He is a regular presenter and teacher at international conferences, with invitations to meetings in Australia, China, New Zealand and South America.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any more questions about cosmetic procedures in Sydney or any of our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. In the meantime, you can find our FAQs below that may provide the additional information you’re looking for.
There are similarities between the neck lift procedure and platysmaplasty, but there are also some key differences:
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- A neck lift may address multiple issues, including:
- Fat deposits and build-up under the chin and around the jowls.
- Skin and muscle laxity throughout the neck area.
- Submuscular laxity that impacts the overall contour of the neck and jawline.
- In comparison, platysmaplasty specifically focuses on reconstructing the platysma neck muscle to potentially address:
- A double chin caused by weakened or separated muscles.
- Fatty jowls that contribute to an aged appearance.
- Loose or sagging neck skin, often referred to as a “turkey neck.”
- Vertical neck bands or cords caused by the separation of the underlying platysma muscle.
- A neck lift may address multiple issues, including:
Both procedures may be combined for patients. During your consultation, our team will discuss your specific concerns and goals, recommending the best course of action to achieve natural, long-lasting results.
The incisions for a surgical neck lift are strategically placed behind the ears or under the chin to minimise visibility. Proper aftercare, including keeping your head slightly elevated during recovery, helps reduce prolonged swelling and supports scar healing. Following your cosmetic doctor’s instructions can further ensure that scars are minimal and discreet.
The results of a neck lift procedure are long-lasting, often enduring 10–15 years. By addressing soft tissues and tightening muscles, as well as removing excess fat, the procedure may provide a youthful neck contour. Maintaining a stable weight and following a healthy lifestyle may help prolong the effects.
Recovery after a neck lift procedure varies from patient to patient, but most individuals can resume light activities, such as walking or desk work, within 1–2 weeks. Swelling and bruising are common during this period, gradually subsiding as the body heals. Strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting, exercise, or any action that places strain on the soft tissues and neck muscles, should be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks to ensure proper healing.
Yes, a surgical neck lift can be combined with complementary treatments such as a facelift, liposuction, or neck lift platysmaplasty for more comprehensive rejuvenation. Combining procedures may enhance results, particularly for those looking to address both facial and neck skin concerns.
The information on the website is for general guidance only and cannot be used as a basis to make a surgical decision, an initial consultation with our doctor is required to help patients make an informed decision before proceeding with any surgical procedure. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek the opinion of an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Risks and complications of cosmetic surgery
These risks, while concerning, are generally rare and can be mitigated through careful planning, following pre- and post-operative care instructions, and working with qualified and experienced medical practitioners, like those at ICCM. But it can still be beneficial to understand potential risks that can occur, so you can discuss these risks before proceeding with any treatment.
Scarring
Scarring is a common risk with any surgery that involves making incisions in the skin. While practitioners take care to place incisions in discreet areas and close them carefully to minimise scars, the body’s healing process varies from person to person. Some individuals may develop thicker, more noticeable scars, known as hypertrophic scars or keloids, which can be difficult to treat and may require additional procedures.
Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling are common side effects of surgery as the body responds to tissue trauma. While these symptoms typically subside within a few weeks, severe bruising can cause discomfort and prolong recovery. In some cases, significant swelling might indicate underlying issues such as fluid accumulation or infection, requiring further medical attention.
Bleeding
Bleeding during surgery is controlled by the surgical team, but there is always a risk of excessive bleeding either during the procedure or postoperatively. This can lead to complications like hematomas, where blood pools under the skin, potentially requiring surgical drainage. Severe bleeding can also lead to shock, which is a medical emergency.
Infection
Infection is a risk whenever the skin is broken, as it provides a pathway for bacteria to enter the body. Surgical sites are particularly vulnerable, especially if the wound care instructions are not followed closely. Infections can range from minor skin infections to more serious, deep-tissue infections that might require antibiotics, drainage, or even additional surgery to resolve.
Pain
Pain is an expected part of recovery from any surgery, but its intensity and duration can vary. While most pain can be managed with prescribed medications, some patients may experience prolonged or severe pain, which could indicate complications such as nerve damage or infection. Chronic pain is a less common, but more serious, concern that might persist long after the typical recovery period.
Undesirable Cosmetic Outcome
An undesirable cosmetic outcome occurs when the results of the surgery do not meet the patient’s expectations, or the aesthetic goals outlined before the procedure. This could be due to asymmetry, unnatural appearance, or a failure to achieve the desired contour or shape. In some cases, additional procedures, known as revision surgeries, may be needed to correct these issues.
Nerve Damage
Nerve damage is a risk in many cosmetic procedures, especially those that involve cutting near nerves. This can lead to numbness, tingling, or even loss of sensation in the affected area. While some nerve damage may be temporary and improve over time, permanent nerve injury can result in lasting changes in sensation or function.
Seroma
A seroma is a pocket of clear fluid that can build up under the skin after surgery. It often occurs when the surgical area is not fully drained, leading to swelling and discomfort. Seromas are usually treated by draining the fluid with a needle, but if left untreated, they can increase the risk of infection or contribute to poor wound healing.
Anaesthetic Complications
Anaesthetic complications can arise from both general and local anaesthesia. These risks include allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and, in rare cases, more severe reactions such as malignant hyperthermia. Patients with pre-existing health conditions or those undergoing lengthy procedures are at a higher risk. Complications can range from temporary disorientation or nausea to more serious outcomes like heart attack or stroke.
Death
Death is the most severe and rare risk associated with cosmetic surgery. It can result from complications related to anaesthesia, excessive bleeding, severe infection, or an adverse reaction during the procedure. While the overall risk is low, it underscores the importance of a thorough preoperative assessment and choosing an experienced, qualified medical practitioner to minimise risks.
The information on the website is for general guidance only and cannot be used as a basis to make a surgical decision, an initial consultation with our doctor is required to help patients make an informed decision before proceeding with any surgical procedure. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek the opinion of an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
