A neck lift is an outpatient procedure. You can go home the same day, so make arrangements ahead of time for somebody to drive you home.
First, an incision is made inside the front of each ear. It runs below the ear and then behind it. Another incision is usually needed just below the chin.
From there, the skin is lifted up and back toward the ear, and anchored with sutures. At this time, the neck muscles are tightened and excess skin is removed, leaving the repositioned skin looking and feeling youthfully firm and snug.
Sometimes special stitches called suspension sutures are placed under the skin; they run up behind the ear and help keep the neck tissue lifted. Because of the positioning of the incisions, scars are typically well hidden.
With today’s advanced surgical technology, neck lifts can be performed endoscopically, using instruments that visually guide Dr. Fante through the procedure. Endoscopic procedures all the use of smaller incisions, reducing the need for general anesthesia. This means less bruising and a faster recovery process for you.
A neck lift can be done with either a local anesthetic combined with some IV sedation, or with general anesthesia. Dr. Fante will discuss this with you.