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There are 3 procedures that can
improve a fleshy, sagging neckline. Dr. Chartchai
will decide what is causing the drooping and will
use any or all of these procedures: bulky fat deposits
can be removed with liposuction; excess skin can
be removed with incisions directly under the chin
or behind the ears; and sagging bands or cords of
the platysma muscle are tightened by a small incision
directly under the chin.
What do you want to change?
Some men and women may first notice that they
no longer have a clean chin and neck line. People
can be unhappy with prominent bands in the neck
due to sagging neck muscles. Perhaps they no longer
see their necks because of significant fatty deposits
around the chin and neck. In the extreme, they will
notice severe skin droops and folds that create
what's known as a turkey neck.
Procedure
To correct a fleshy, sagging neckline, Dr. Chartchai
may excise the fat beneath the skin of the chin
by making a small incision in the crease underneath
the chin to access the platysma muscle in the neck.
If necessary, the muscle is tightened either by
lifting or cutting it to eliminate the pronounced
cords.
Liposuction
may be done along with the removal of the fat pad
to reduce a double chin. This combination of procedures
creates a more sculpted, angular appearance for
the face and neck overall.
Recovery time
After the surgery, you will wear a compression bandage
around the neck for the first 24 hours or longer
to aid in the retraction and shaping of the skin.
Strenuous activity should be avoided
for the first 2-3 weeks. Swelling will last a few
days or up to a week or so. Bruising will subside
within 2-3 weeks.
After a combination facelift and
neck lift, it takes 2-3 weeks to look near normal,
3-6 months for the swelling to subside, and a year
until the face and neck are completely healed. Vigorous
activity and work should be avoided for the first
2 weeks. Exposure to the sun should be limited for
the first few months.
Possible complications
Complications may include hematomas, infection,
and skin loss (especially with cigarette smokers).
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