Eliminate Sagging Skin with a Neck Lift
Unfortunately, the neck can often be one of the first parts of the body to show early signs of aging, especially for those who spend a great deal of their time outdoors. If you are considering a neck lift, Dr. John F. Zavell is a seasoned plastic surgeon in Toledo, OH, who has performed discreet but highly effective neck lifts for over two decades. His approach to facial cosmetic surgery allows his patients to look and feel younger without harshly altering their appearance.
Understanding Neck Lifts
One of the most common treatments in the field of cosmetic surgery, a neck lift can provide dramatic results for patients who are self-conscious about sagging skin and excess fat. Because of today’s advanced technology, neck lifts are one of the safest and most effective cosmetic procedures available. The procedure typically involves the removal of fatty deposits and excess skin. In some cases, the doctor may also restructure the underlying muscles for a tighter, smoother appearance.
Am I a Candidate?
Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, it is important to be in good overall health. You may be a candidate for a neck lift if you have:
- Sagging or drooping skin around the neck
- Ill-defined jaw contours
- Stubborn fat deposits that do not diminish with exercise or diet
- The appearance of a double chin or jowls
- Sun- or wind-damaged skin on the neck
Dr. Zavell can evaluate your case during a consultation to determine the most appropriate treatment for you.
Your Initial Consultation
Your first visit with us is one of the most important steps of your treatment process. During your consultation, our patient care coordinator and Dr. Zavell will meet with you to discuss your aesthetic concerns and overall goals. After a comprehensive evaluation, the doctor can design a customized treatment plan to address your specific situation. In many cases, he can even share virtual mockups of what you can look like when your treatment is complete. Depending on your specific goals for treatment, he may recommend combining the procedure with a full face lift, blepharoplasty, or other cosmetic facial surgeries.
Preparing for Treatment
In the days and weeks before the procedure, patients can take a number of measures to lay the groundwork for both a safe recovery and successful outcome. Patients should:
- Avoid taking any blood-thinning medications or supplements, including ibuprofen and aspirin
- Stop smoking at least six weeks prior to surgery, if not all together
- Stay hydrated
Together, these steps can help speed up the healing process so that you can return to your normal routine as quickly and safely as possible.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Dr. Zavell can typically complete a neck lift in about two to three hours. The exact method required will depend on your unique situation. Some patients can achieve their desired results through liposuction alone, while others may need to also remove excess skin for a more dramatic outcome.
Dr. Zavell will place the incisions in a discreet location, such as under the chin or behind the ears. Through these openings, he can then manipulate and reposition the underlying tissues and muscles. He can then close up the incisions with stitches.
Healing and Recovery
For the first few days following your procedure, it is important to rest at home as much as possible. Discomfort, swelling, and bruising are all normal aspects of healing, but can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.
Most patients can return to work and their normal routine in about two weeks. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activity until Dr. Zavell gives you clearance. Swelling will continue to diminish over the next few weeks. In most cases, it will take about six months for the full effects of treatment to become apparent.
Contact Our Practice Today
If you are interested in learning more about neck lifts, or any of our other cosmetic treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Zavell. Contact us online or call us at (419) 534-6551.
