A neck lift surgery is the perfect procedure to correct and improve signs of aging in your neck. As you age, your skin becomes less elastic causing loose skin and muscles to build up and cause the neck to sag. Jowls may also develop, taking away from your youthful jawline. A neck lift can lift and tighten sagging skin in your neck and jawline, helping you to look years younger and feel more confident when looking in the mirror.
Before your neck lip procedure, make sure that you talk with your surgeon about all the risks and benefits. It’s also important to prepare for what to expect after your neck lift.
Right After Your Neck Lift
Immediately after your neck lift procedure, you’ll feel weak and tired from the anesthesia. You’ll either have a bandage around your neck, chin, and face, or you’ll be wearing a supportive chin strap. Expect to have sutures at the incision sites and possibly a small tube underneath your skin to help drain excess fluids. This drainage will be removed, and your bandages will be changed at your follow-up appointment.
Follow your surgeon’s post-procedural instructions closely. To protect your incisions, avoid long, hot showers. Also avoid twisting or excessively moving your neck as this can aggravate the incisions. Be prepared with plenty of easy to remove clothing like button-down shirts or sweaters, as you don’t want to have to pull anything over your head and risk disturbing your neck.
One to Three Weeks Post-Operation
The first week to three weeks is when you’ll see the most swelling and bruising. At this point, continue taking your pain medications if you’re still experiencing discomfort. Rest as much as you can. By the end of the first week, most swelling and pain should be subsiding. Many people find they can stop taking their pain medication at this time.
The best thing you can do for yourself during the first three weeks after surgery is follow your surgeon’s recommendations about beginning some neck mobility or stretching maneuvers after the first week. After two weeks, you may feel comfortable enough to resume most normal activities and even return to work as long as your job doesn’t require heavy lifting or excessive activity.
After about 14 days, your stitches will be removed, depending on how your incision site is healing.
Three To Five Weeks
As the one-month mark approaches, the new shape of your neck and jawline will be revealed as swelling continues to improve. You’ll begin to feel more like yourself at this point. Typically, patients can resume exercise and strenuous activities after the first month, with your surgeon’s approval. Incision sites may still be raised or dark, but this will continue to improve over time.
Six Weeks Post-Surgery
Depending on your incision, it may be several weeks before swimming or hot, steamy showers is recommended. While swelling and bruising should have improved by this point, it may still feel tight, numb, or tingling in the area. These sensations could last for several months but should subside on their own without intervention.
Schedule Your Neck Lift Surgery in The Woodlands, TX!
With Dr. W. Marshall Guy, recovering from surgery is nothing to be anxious about. He and his incredible staff at Dr. Guy Facial Plastic Surgery will be with you for the duration of your journey, from the moment you walk in for your consultation, to the moment you leave fully recovered. The best way to prepare for a surgery like a neck lift is to speak with a surgeon experienced in the procedure you’re interested in. When it comes to facial plastic surgery, there is no one like Dr. Guy.
To learn more or to schedule your consultation, call (832) 956-1040 or contact us through our convenient website portal today!