The neck lift has become quite popular in the last few years in the plastic surgery industry. This facial procedure can make you look younger, more refreshed, and more confident. But how long does a neck lift last? And what factors affect its longevity?
In this article, we will answer these questions and provide some tips on how to maintain your results after a neck lift.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy or platysmaplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat around the jawline, creating a more defined and youthful-looking neck. It can also tighten the underlying muscles and smooth out wrinkles on the neck.
Some people may combine a neck lift with other facial plastic surgery procedures, such as a facelift, or brow lift for an optimal result.
How long does a neck lift last?
A neck lift often lasts 10 to 15 years on average, but this depends on the individual’s skin, lifestyle, and age. A neck lift is not a permanent solution and your results may change over time due to various factors like aging and lifestyle.
The type of neck lift and the age of the patient can affect the surgery’s outcome and recovery time. The more invasive the surgery is, the more time your neck may require to recover.
Also, younger patients tend to have better skin elasticity and faster healing compared to older patients.
Now, let’s take a closer look at its longevity and how you can extend it!
How to make your neck lift last longer?
Now that you know how long a neck lift lasts on average, you should also know how to sustain it so you can enjoy your freshened appearance longer. Here are some tips on how to make your neck lift last longer and preserve your youthful look.
1. Follow the post-operative care instructions
After your neck lift surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your incisions, drains, bandages, and stitches. You should follow these instructions carefully to minimize the risk of infection, bleeding, scarring, and complications. You should also avoid any strenuous physical activities, such as lifting, bending, or exercising, for as long as your surgical team recommends. You should also keep your head elevated and avoid turning or twisting your neck for the first few days.
2. Avoid alcohol and smoking
Smoking and drinking frequently can have serious negative effects on your skin and overall health. Smoking can reduce blood flow to your skin and impair its healing and elasticity. Drinking can also dehydrate your skin and cause inflammation and swelling. Both smoking and drinking can also increase the risk of infection and complications after your neck lift surgery. Avoid smoking and limiting your alcohol intake for a successful recovery.
3. Protect your skin from sun damage
Sun exposure can damage your skin and cause wrinkles, sagging, and discoloration. It’s recommended to always wear sunscreen if you go out during the day. You should also wear comfortable clothing that covers your neck. Avoid sunbathing or tanning beds post-surgery as they can also harm your skin and affect your results.
4. Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet, avoiding soft drinks and processed food can help nourish your skin and body and support its healing process. Having enough water is also crucial for your health and skin. A minimum of 5 cups of water a day is recommended to keep your skin well-hydrated.
5. Exercise regularly
Exercise can help tone your muscles and improve your blood circulation and oxygen delivery to your skin including your neck’s skin. This can help maintain the firmness and smoothness of your neck and prevent sagging. However, you should wait until you are fully healed before resuming any exercise routine. Consulting with your surgeon before starting any new or strenuous activities is highly recommended.
6. Consider non-surgical treatments
Non-surgical treatments can help enhance or maintain your neck lift results by addressing minor signs of aging or improving the texture and quality of your skin. These include injectables like Botox or fillers, chemical peels, and skincare that can smooth out wrinkles, add volume to your neck, exfoliate and moisturize your skin.
Conclusion
A neck lift can enhance one’s self-confidence and facial harmony, but it is not a permanent solution for aging. A neck lift can last for several years, depending on the individual’s age, skin quality, lifestyle, and genetics. However, a neck lift cannot stop the natural aging process, and some signs of aging may reappear over time. To maintain the results of a neck lift, it is important to follow the post-operative instructions, protect the skin from sun damage, and adopt a healthy diet and exercise routine.
