A neck lift offers dramatic improvements for men and women concerned about signs of aging in the neck and along the jawline. Rejuvenation of lax skin, accumulation of undesirable fat, and thickening and separation of muscle bands produces very desirable and long-lasting results.
Neck lifting in younger patients can be performed through a limited incision under the chin, The procedure produces long-lasting results, but patients often ask about the time and discomfort involved in recovery. We’ll look at the neck lift recovery journey in detail, including what you can expect and steps you can take to optimize your healing process.
4 Min. Read:
Table of Contents
- How Long Does Neck Lift Recovery Take?
- Healing Phases After a Neck Lift
- Neck Lift Recovery One Month Out
- Tips to Optimize Your Neck Lift Recovery Process
- Why Choose Dr. Butler for Your Santa Monica Neck Lift?
How Long Does Neck Lift Recovery Take?
Like any surgical procedure, a neck lift requires a recovery process afterward. Patients usually experience some swelling, bruising, and tightness after surgery, which may last up to 10 days. Most people return to work and other activities within two weeks. However, strenuous activity should be avoided for longer, based onDr. Butler’s recommendation.
Healing Phases After a Neck Lift
Your neck lift recovery will likely progress in the following phases:
Immediately After Surgery
Dr. Butler performs neck lifts on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home a few hours after your surgery. Since you are given anesthesia, you will need to have someone drive you home. We also recommend having someone with you for at least 24 hours after your surgery.
You will have dressings on your incisions and may have a compression garment around your jaw. Some patients will have a small drain placed in their incision to prevent fluid buildup in the surgical site. Dr. Butler will send you home with pain medication to keep you comfortable for the first few days after your surgery.
During the First Week
During the first week of your neck lift recovery, you should keep your head elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling. Ice packs can also help relieve pain and swelling. Following Dr. Butler’s post-operative instructions will ensure a smooth recovery process.
During the Second Week
By the second week, you should see a significant reduction in swelling, bruising, and tenderness. You may be able to resume light activities, but you should always check with Dr. Butler’s office before making any significant changes in your activity level. Most patients are clear to return to work and regular activities by the end of the second week.
Neck Lift Recovery One Month Out
About one month after your neck lift surgery, you should be feeling and looking almost back to normal. Residual swelling should be minimal, and you will start to see the results of the new neck contour. Continue using sun protection and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to optimize your new look.
Tips to Optimize Your Neck Lift Recovery Process
Throughout your neck lift recovery, there are steps you can take to ensure the most comfortable healing process and the best possible results:
- Head Position: Keep your head elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling. Avoid moving your head from side to side to allow your incisions time to heal.
- Get Enough Rest: Particularly during the first week after neck lift surgery, take things easy and get plenty of rest. Even if you feel like getting up and doing things around the house, refrain from too much activity that could stress your body immediately following your procedure.
- Stop Smoking: Avoid smoking for a few weeks before and after your surgery to prevent complications during and after the procedure. Even better, take this opportunity to kick the smoking habit for good.
- Eat Healthy: A nutritious diet supports your body during the healing process and may even help reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Avoid Makeup: Don’t apply makeup until you have the green light from Dr. Butler. Makeup products can introduce bacteria and other contaminants into the surgical sites, increasing your risk of infection.
Why Choose Dr. Butler for Your Santa Monica Neck Lift?
Dr. Butler is a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial and neck surgery. With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Butler is uniquely qualified to perform your neck lift and ensure a safe, successful outcome. He customizes every neck lift to each patient’s specific needs and goals, adding procedures such as liposuction to remove excess neck fat or implants to define the chin and jawline. Check out our before-and-after neck lift photos to see the results Dr. Butler has achieved for some of his other patients.
More Questions About a Neck Lift in Santa Monica?
A neck lift can turn back the clock on your appearance by removing loose skin and adding definition to the neck and jawline. If you want to learn more about your neck lift options, schedule your consultation with Dr. Butler by calling our Santa Monica office at (310) 428-0033 or completing our online contact form.