There are 3 procedures that can improve a fleshy, sagging neckline. Our physicians will decide what is causing the drooping and will use any or all of these procedures: bulky fat deposits can be removed with liposuction; excess skin can be removed with incisions directly under the chin or behind the ears; and sagging bands or cords of the platysma muscle are tightened by a small incision directly under the chin.

What do you want to change?

Some men and women may first notice that they no longer have a clean chin and neck line. People can be unhappy with prominent bands in the neck due to sagging neck muscles. Perhaps they no longer see their necks because of significant fatty deposits around the chin and neck. In the extreme, they will notice severe skin droops and folds that create what's known as a turkey neck.

Procedure

To correct a fleshy, sagging neckline, our physicians may excise the fat beneath the skin of the chin by making a small incision in the crease underneath the chin to access the platysma muscle in the neck. If necessary, the muscle is tightened either by lifting or cutting it to eliminate the pronounced cords.

     Liposuction may be done along with the removal of the fat pad to reduce a double chin. This combination of procedures creates a more sculpted, angular appearance for the face and neck overall.

Recovery time

After the surgery, you will wear a compression bandage around the neck for the first 24 hours or longer to aid in the retraction and shaping of the skin.

     Strenuous activity should be avoided for the first 2-3 weeks. Swelling will last a few days or up to a week or so. Bruising will subside within 2-3 weeks.

     After a combination facelift and neck lift, it takes 2-3 weeks to look near normal, 3-6 months for the swelling to subside, and a year until the face and neck are completely healed. Vigorous activity and work should be avoided for the first 2 weeks. Exposure to the sun should be limited for the first few months.

Possible complications

Complications may include hematomas, infection, and skin loss (especially with cigarette smokers).