Finding a long-term solution for the delicate but sagging skin of your neck can leave you overwhelmed and frustrated. This sagging is a natural part of the aging process, but some may find this drooping neck skin unsightly and look for ways to correct it. Many turn to cosmetic enhancement to correct this problem, but some have concerns about whether the price of the cosmetic procedure is worth it. When performed by an experienced surgeon, a neck lift is a great solution if you want lasting results, but how long does a neck lift last? Any cosmetic enhancements should only be done under the supervision of a licensed plastic surgeon to ensure minimal risk and optimal results.
How Long Does A Neck Lift Last?
Sadly, a neck lift is not a permanent fix, but thankfully, most patients experience results that last for upwards of 10 years. The realm of cosmetic enhancements has made remarkable strides; however, neither science nor surgery can entirely stop the natural process of aging. To optimize and prolong the results of your neck lift, adopting healthy habits is important, as well as following any aftercare instructions provided by your plastic surgeon.
Factors Influencing the Longevity of a Neck Lift
Some influencing factors on the longevity of your neck lift may be in your control, and then some may not. Both scenarios likely apply to you. Your surgeon will discuss any influencing factors specific to you and educate you on the best ways to proceed.
Influencing factors of the longevity of a neck lift:
- Genetics
- Skin elasticity
- Muscle tone
- Smoking
- Poor diet
- UV exposure
- Conditions surrounding your surgery and aftercare
Expected Timeline: What to Expect Following Surgery
A neck lift is typically done as an outpatient procedure, which means you arrive for surgery shortly before it is to be performed, your surgeon performs your neck lift, and you go home the same day. If you want to maximize your results and promote longevity, following your surgeon’s instructions diligently is going to be a key factor.
Your surgeon and care team will educate you on incision care and other postoperative neck lift recovery instructions to follow at home. Common recovery instructions include:
- Avoiding blood thinners like alcohol or aspirin
- Elevating your head during sleep
- Avoid applying ice
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Avoid turning your head at your neck
Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Neck Lift
To set yourself up for success in your journey and prolong the longevity of your neck lift, adopting an individualized skincare routine and healthy lifestyle habits is highly recommended. Evidence indicates that adopting a healthy lifestyle and consistent skincare routine is the best way to get the most out of your neck lift and contribute to your overall health and well-being.
To prolong results:
- Always apply sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 daily, even if it is cloudy.
- Consider implementing retinoids in your skincare routine to help maintain firmness and elasticity.
- Antioxidants are great for battling free radicals that can contribute to aging.
- Your skin needs moisture to remain firm and buoyant. This can be achieved with a high-quality moisturizer.
- To support overall health and collagen production, adopt a balanced diet.
- Limit the use of tobacco and alcohol products.
- Staying hydrated is a good rule for almost everything.
- Allow your body plenty of rest and adequate time to heal.
- Keep follow-up appointments with your surgeon to track progress and address any potential complications.
Correct Sagging Neck Skin With A Neck Lift
While a neck lift doesn’t offer forever results, it does reset the clock a bit and offers 10-15 years instead. If factors are optimal, some even experience the benefits of a neck lift for upwards of two decades. To maximize your neck lift’s lifespan, follow all of your surgeon’s instructions carefully. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and adopting a holistic approach to your skincare and overall health can lay the foundation for increasing the longevity of your neck lift.
A neck lift can provide remarkable results, but should be approached with great care and guidance from a board-certified plastic surgeon. Your surgeon can provide personalized advice derived from your facial structure, skin quality, and cosmetic goals. By combining surgical expertise with ongoing healthy lifestyle habits, you can trim years off the appearance of your neckline.
Neck Lift in Beverly Hills
Call an experienced plastic surgeon to learn how a neck lift can help you reach your cosmetic goals.