Removing a double-chin a fairly common wish among patients. While there are non-surgical treatments like Kybella, liposuction of the neck remains the best and most predictable option for treating this area. Liposuction of the neck is usually performed in the office under local and oral sedation.
Introduction to Neck Lift
Typical Timing/Age
40-60
Problem
Isolated areas of excess fat.
Procedure
The area to be treated is accessed with cannulas a small skin incision under/behind the chin. The isolated area of excess fat is then artfully removed to leave behind a pleasing contour. This is why some plastic surgeons refer to liposuction as “liposculpture.”
Goal
To remove fat from the neck and create a more youthful, pleasing neck contour.
Facility
Office/Clinic, Surgery Center or Hospital
Preparation
Patients should be at a stable weight.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia in the office/clinic or general anesthesia at a surgery center or hospital.
Hospital stay
No overnight stay in the hospital is required.
Assistance
You will be able to walk around, feed and bathe yourself. Depending on your pain medication requirements, you may not be able to care for others or drive a car.
Walking After Surgery
You are encouraged to walk around as much as possible to help reduce the risk of DVT and thromboembolism.
Showering
You may shower immediately after surgery.
Exercise
Light exercise is ok 1 week after surgery. Regular exercise after 2 weeks.
Sex
Wait 1 week because you don’t want to increase your blood pressure during the early healing period.
Work
1 week or less depending on your type of work.
Swelling
Usually, it peaks around 3 days and gradually goes away.
Bruising
Should subside within 1-2 weeks.
Performed by: Dr. Butler, Dr. Leveque, Dr. Patterson
*Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank: Statistics 2013. (2014). Aesthetic Surgery Journal / the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 34(1 suppl), 1S-22S.doi:10.1177/1090820X14542571
