Are There Risks Associated With a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that tightens sagging skin and muscles to improve the appearance of the neck and jawline. While it’s effective for reducing signs of aging, like any surgical procedure, it does have some risks.
Dr. Michelle Lee, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, is known for her commitment to patient safety, personalized care, and natural-looking results. As a top expert in facial plastic surgery and an authority on neck lift procedures, Dr. Lee is uniquely qualified to explain the risks associated with a neck lift and how you can minimize them.
Risks Associated with Neck Lift Surgery
Though neck lift surgery is generally safe, patients should be aware of the following possible complications:
Infection
Infection is a potential risk with any surgical procedure. Your surgeon carefully places neck lift incisions, but bacteria can still enter the wound if not properly cared for during recovery. Most infections are easily treated with antibiotics, but severe cases may require additional intervention.
Hematoma
A hematoma occurs when blood collects under the skin, creating swelling and bruising. This can happen in the days following surgery, and while it is typically minor, large hematomas may require drainage by the surgeon. Multiple studies have shown that meticulous blood pressure control is key to reducing hematoma rates. At PERK, we use a multimodality approach before, during and after surgery to optimize blood pressure and therefore decrease high blood pressure.
Poor Wound Healing
Factors such as smoking, certain medical conditions, or poor circulation can lead to delayed wound healing. Wounds that don’t heal properly may become infected or leave large scars. At PERK, we believe we can optimize wound healing by improving your nutrition, tensionless surgical closures and using cutting-edge technology such as hyperbaric oxygen to optimize wound healing.
Risk Factors That Increase Complications
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of complications during and after neck lift surgery. For example:
- Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for poor healing and infection after surgery. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, limiting blood flow and oxygen to healing tissues. Quitting smoking before your procedure is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of complications.
- Medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or immune disorders can increase your risk of complications. It is essential to be upfront with your surgeon about any health issues during your consultation. They will evaluate your overall health and determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.
Two Steps to Take to Ensure a Safe Neck Lift
Selecting a highly qualified and board-certified plastic surgeon is the most important step in minimizing your risks. A skilled surgeon will have a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the neck and know how to perform the procedure safely and effectively.
Dr. Lee is a Harvard-trained, board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation, including neck lifts. Her meticulous approach, combined with years of experience, prioritizes both aesthetic excellence and overall well-being.
Following your surgical care team’s pre-and post-operative care instructions is your next step. These guidelines may include avoiding certain medications, refraining from smoking, and caring for your incisions. Following these instructions closely can significantly reduce your risk of complications.
PERK Plastic Surgery neck lift patient, before and after neck lift surgery:
Reduce Neck Lift Risks With Dr. Lee
Neck lift surgery can rejuvenate your appearance and provide long-lasting results, but understanding the potential risks and taking the proper steps are crucial for a successful outcome. Choosing an experienced, board-certified surgeon like Dr. Michelle Lee at PERK Plastic Surgery ensures that you are in expert hands every step of the way.
If you’re considering a neck lift, PERK Plastic Surgery offers personalized consultations to address your concerns and help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee!
