If you’ve been feeling self-conscious about the appearance of your neck—crepey skin, ropy bands that stand out, or deeply etched lines from “tech neck”—a neck lift could be a game-changer. A neck lift is a procedure designed to help redefine your jawline, tighten loose skin, and smooth out those telltale signs of aging. But what is the recovery process like? In this blog, we’ll go over what to know about neck lift recovery, including how long it takes, what side effects to expect, and when you’ll see your final results.
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Table of Contents
- How Long Does Neck Lift Surgery Recovery Take?
- What Side Effects Will There Be During Neck Lift Surgery Recovery?
- When Will I See My Complete Neck Lift Surgery Results?
- Learn More About Neck Lift Surgery in Santa Monica
How Long Does Neck Lift Surgery Recovery Take?
Like most cosmetic procedures, neck lift surgery recovery happens in stages and varies based on the extent of your procedure and your individual healing process. In general, you can expect your neck lift recovery to proceed along the following timeline:
Week One: You’ll experience the most swelling and bruising during the first several days of your neck lift recovery. You’ll need plenty of rest, but short walks are encouraged to promote circulation. You’ll also need to sleep with your head elevated to help minimize swelling.
Week Two: Swelling begins to subside, and many people can return to desk work or resume light daily activities, covering any residual bruising with makeup or a scarf.
Weeks Three and Four: By this time, you’ll feel significantly better and ready to get back to most of your regular activities. You can typically resume light exercise at this point, with Dr. Butler’s approval.
Months Two and Three: At this point in your neck lift recovery, the majority of the swelling and tightness will have dissipated, and you’ll start to see the final results of your procedure.
What Side Effects Will There Be During Neck Lift Surgery Recovery?
Immediately after your neck lift surgery, you can expect to experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and mild discomfort in your neck and jaw area. Your neck may feel firm or numb, especially where the incisions were made, and it may be difficult to turn your head completely for a short time. These symptoms are expected and all part of the normal healing process. Pain is typically mild to moderate and can be managed with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
It’s important to avoid heavy lifting, bending over, and strenuous activity for at least two to four weeks—even if you start to feel better. Doing too much too soon can interfere with healing and affect your neck lift results.
When Will I See My Complete Neck Lift Surgery Results?
You’ll start noticing improvements in your neck’s contour and jawline within the first few weeks, especially as swelling begins to fade. Your final neck lift results may take three to six months to fully develop, depending on your body’s healing response and whether you combined your procedure with a facelift. However, keep in mind that it’s worth the wait. Once you’re fully healed, your neck will look tighter, smoother, and more youthful, restoring your confidence in your appearance.
While a neck lift doesn’t stop the natural aging process, it can turn back the clock. To maintain your results, it’s essential to adhere to a quality anti-aging skincare routine, wear sunscreen, and follow a healthy lifestyle.
Learn More About Neck Lift Surgery in Santa Monica
If you’re considering neck lift surgery, knowing what to expect from the recovery period can help you plan ahead and make the journey to a more beautiful neck silhouette easier. To learn more about neck lift surgery and find out if you’re a good candidate, it’s time to schedule a consultation with board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. David M. Butler. To make an appointment, call Butler Facial Plastic Surgery today at (310) 428-0033 or complete our online form.