Face and Necklift
As we age our faces undergo many characteristic changes. The skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner. The ligaments supporting the facial structures relax causing features to drop, and the natural distribution off fat in our face changes. The overall effect is of a saggy face with deeper lines and creases. A similar process occurs in the neck causing sagging of the skin and soft tissues.
About the surgery
In the early stages of aging, many non surgical treatments can hide and slow some of these signs, however there often comes a time when these can no longer provide the desired results and patients may consider surgical options including face and neck lift.
There are many different types of facelift described and Mr West will assess your face and recommend the most appropriate one for you. A face and neck lift is an extension of the short scar / Vr facelift where the scar extends behind the ear.
This allows the structures of the neck to be tightened and lifted and is the main difference between the two. It may also be most appropriate in those people who have severe sagging of the jowls and lower face. Mr West’s preferred technique for face and neck lift is the extended deep plane face and neck lift we he believes gives his patients the best, natural long lasting results.
Face and neck lift surgery aims to restore a youthful and natural appearance to the face by lifting and tightening the skin and soft tissues. Patients often have other procedures at the same time including lip lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty and brow lift.
Indication
Aging face, jowls, sagging, loose skin, facial descent
Anesthetic
General / Deep sedation
Downtime
2-3 weeks
Results
Gold standard in facial rejuvenation delivering long lasting natural results.
Anatomy
Full release of deep ligaments to allow tension free, natural lift. Combined with deep reduction of neck structures.
Duration
4-5 hours
Exercise
3-4 weeks
Price
POA
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY
The team will welcome you to the clinic and get you settled and relaxed. You will meet the consultant anaesthetist who will discuss the anaesthetic with you. We will go through the procedure and discuss the process and sign the consent form. Photographs will be taken before heading to theatre.
Mr West will mark the planned incisions meticulously to ensure the exact result. Through the skin incisions, the skin is elevated off the supporting SMAS layer of the face and neck. Permanent stitches are placed in the SMAS to provide the lift. Excess skin is removed and the skin is closed with a single running stitch. Antibiotic ointment is placed over the scars and a post surgical compression dressing is put on.
Following surgery you will be transferred to the recovery area and will be looked after by our dedicated recovery team. We will ensure all aftercare is explained and follow up appointments are arranged before letting you leave.
Frequently asked questions
What is the different between a Vr lift, and a face and neck lift?
The Vr / short scar face lift is not designed to improve the neck. It is best for treating the jowls, jawline and mid face. If you have concerns about your neck, then a face and neck lift is likely to be more appropriate.
What are the risks associated with this procedure?
We will discuss this in detail at your consultation. Swelling and bruising for a 1 – 2 weeks is to be expected. Infections can occur which are treated with antibiotics and you will be given a course to take after surgery. Minor bleeding can rarely happen which should stop with pressure. The scar is usually very well concealed in the natural fold of the ear and hairline. Sometimes this can take a while to settle down and is helped by regular massage. Minor asymmetry can happen but is rarely noticeable. Damage to the facial nerve causing weakness or paralysis of facial movement is an extremely rare complication.
What are the follow up or aftercare procedures?
Sutures are removed after 10 days and scar massage begins after 2 weeks. Further review appointment is usually made 4-6 weeks after surgery.
When can I start playing sports again?
Light activity is ok after 2 weeks. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Anything that gets your face red (bending over, heavy lifting) should be avoided in the first 2 weeks.
How long do the results last?
Plastic surgery can’t stop the aging process, it just resets the clock. Therefore, after surgery you will age in a similar way just from a different starting point.
When can I wash my hair?
Hair can be gently washed the day after surgery using mild shampoo.
Related Treatments
Related Conditions
Aging / saggy / tired face
Jowls
Facial lines / creases / wrinkles
Saggy neck / turkey neck
Fat neck
Volume loss / hollow cheeks / hollow temples
