Neck Lift

Are You an Ideal Candidate for Neck Rejuvenation?

The best way to determine your candidacy is through a private consultation. However, you may be a good candidate for neck rejuvenation if you are looking for a definitive solution for signs of aging in the neck area.

• You are bothered by the appearance of loose skin or excess fat on your neck
• You are in good general health and are a non-smoker
• You have realistic expectations about what the surgical outcome can achieve
• You have maintained a stable weight and have reasonably good skin elasticity

Neck Lift Consultation Process

If you are considering a neck lift in Boston, the first step is a confidential consultation with Dr. Bartlett. At this time, he will perform a medical evaluation and listen carefully to understand your goals.  Pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and any history of smoking will be reviewed for proper management. 

Dr. Bartlett will answer questions about the benefits and risks of neck lift surgery, describe the treatment process, and may discuss alternative treatment options.  Neck lifts are most commonly performed in conjunction with a facelift to achieve a smooth, natural look. Other procedures, such as blepharoplasty, chemical peels, and facial fat transfers, can enhance the results of a necklift.

Dr. Bartlett will create and personalize your surgical plan. He will provide you with instructions on how to prepare for your neck lift procedure and review the recovery period with you. You will be asked to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home after the surgery and to assist with your initial recovery (24-48 hours).

What to Expect During Your Neck Lift Procedure

A neck lift is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the neck by tightening the skin and underlying neck muscles. A discrete incision will be made below the chin and/or behind the ears. The neck lift can be performed in conjunction with a facelift procedure or other facial rejuvenation procedures.

After the incision, a combination of surgical techniques is performed. For necks with excess fat, liposuction may be necessary during the procedure. Loose neck muscles are tightened with internal sutures (platysmaplasty), and the sagging neck skin is trimmed. Finally, the incisions are meticulously closed with sutures. A head wrap bandage and drains will be placed.

Recovery Process After Neck Lift Surgery

Dr Bartlett and his staff will go over the details of the recovery process ahead of time, providing written instructions and prescription medications before surgery so that you are well prepared.

For pain management, local anesthetic is injected while the patient is asleep to minimize post-operative discomfort allowing the patient to awaken comfortably. Pain is controlled with over-the-counter Tylenol and the light use of a narcotic.

The patients are instructed to return to the office 24 to 48 hours after for removal of their drains. The head wrap dressing will be exchanged to a lighter bandage. The lighter bandage may be removed at home beginning on post-operative day 4.  Sutures are removed at days 7 and 14 after surgery.

Swelling and bruising can last for 1 to 3 weeks. Patients are instructed to sleep with their head elevated to reduce swelling.  Numbness and firmness may persist for months but do not affect appearance.  Most patients look acceptable at two weeks but some may have residual swelling and bruising into their third week. Women may consider wearing their hair down during this period of healing and men often grow a beard to camouflage incisions.

Exercise is not permitted for 2 weeks after surgery. You may begin performing light exercise at 2 weeks and vigorous exercise may be resumed 3 to 6 weeks after surgery, once cleared by Dr. Bartlett. If you have a strenuous job, you are recommended to remain out of work for at least 2-3 weeks. Laptop-based work is permitted soon after surgery.

Most patients look well after 2 weeks, but the final result from a neck lift is evaluated 6 months later. It is important for patients to maintain proper skin care by using moisturizer and sunscreen to ensure results last as long as possible.

How Much Does a Neck Lift Cost?

The cost of a neck lift depends on factors such as the time required for surgery, the type of anesthesia used, and the techniques employed. An estimate of the cost can be provided over the phone by the front desk administrator. After consulting with Dr. Bartlett, a specific and detailed quote will be provided.

Why Trust Dr. Richard Bartlett

Dr. Richard A. Bartlett’s expertise in facial plastic surgery provides the foundation for exceptional neck lift results. His credentials include a degree from Harvard Medical School and extensive training at its most respected hospitals. As a board-certified plastic surgeon who served for 18 years as the Chief of Plastic Surgery at a major Boston teaching hospital, Dr. Bartlett possesses a level of skill and anatomical understanding that few can match.

Our practice is built on a foundation of personalized care and the highest standards of patient safety. We are committed to achieving beautifully natural results that complement your unique features, ensuring you look refreshed and authentic. Every procedure is performed in our private, fully accredited surgical suite, where your comfort, safety, and positive experience are our foremost priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule Your Neck Lift Consultation Today

Contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard A. Bartlett regarding a neck lift in Boston. Reserve your appointment and discover what a personalized neck lift can do for you.