A neck lift provides a youthful contour to the neck and jawline by eliminating excess skin, fatty deposits, and neck bands. However, many patients are nervous about the possibility of unsightly scarring after their neck lifts. This blog discusses the benefits of this procedure, how to determine where plastic surgery scars may be, and how to avoid overly dark or large scars.
Achieve a Lifted and Lean Result With a Neck Lift
Over time and with the effects of gravity, the face and neck are often the first to show visible signs of aging. And while we are more informed about preventative measures for facial wrinkles and sun protection, it is not uncommon for the neck to be neglected. This can result in loose, sagging skin, vertical neck bands, or a turkey neck, all of which detract from the contour of the jawline and neck.
A neck lift is the ideal procedure to combat these issues, as it specifically treats the entirety of the neck by tightening loose platysma muscles, reducing vertical neck bands, and smoothing loose skin for a slender, contoured result. As the neck is treated, the jawline and chin become more contoured, appearing youthful and chiseled.
What Do Neck Lift Scars Look Like?
After “How much does it cost?” and “What will the results look like?”, “What will scars look like?” is the most common question prospective plastic surgery patients ask. In all cases, scars are related directly to the location of incisions. Whenever a cut is made on the body, such as during a surgical incision, there is a risk of a visible scar.
So, to determine what your neck lift scars will look like, it’s important to understand exactly where your surgeon will place the incisions. Each plastic surgeon has a preferred technique for each procedure, so it may be a little different from one to the next.
Celebrity facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jason B. Diamond opts to hide neck lift incisions within the patient’s hairline, at the sideburn level, continuing them behind the ear and ending in the hairline on the back of the head. This ensures not only thorough access to the neck’s interior structures and tissues for a lasting result, but also that subsequent scarring is hidden by the patient’s hair.
Will My Neck Lift Scars Be Noticeable?
The appearance of surgical scars depends on several factors, some within the patient’s control and others not. Here’s what matters when it comes to scar healing and appearance:
Incision Location
Obviously, the incision sets the tone for where scars are located. In cosmetic surgery, surgeons have to balance the need for larger incisions for visibility and ease of the procedure, along with the importance of a subtle, aesthetically pleasing scar. Dr. Diamond always does his best to only place incisions where absolutely necessary, but they are necessary, nonetheless.
Surgical Skill & Suturing
Another factor is your surgeon’s expertise with suturing. Uneven, messy, or clumsy incisions and sutures (or stitches) can cause large or unsightly scars down the line. It’s rare, as plastic surgeons are trained to be mindful of their suturing, but this is a possible reason someone might end up with larger scars. Dr. Diamond is a premier facial plastic surgeon with a deep knowledge of facial and neck structures, providing finesse and expertise when it comes to surgical incisions.
Recovery
This is where the patient’s actions come into play: recovery. Aftercare is crucial in protecting your healing body and skin, so following Dr. Diamond’s instructions is key—especially when it comes to limiting exercise and mobility. Always err on the side of caution when returning to daily activities, as bending and twisting the skin can pull on the healing incisions and cause more collagen to be produced to patch up the damage, resulting in large scars.
Scar Prevention and Care
As soon as your incisions seal (are no longer open wounds), Dr. Diamond may OK you to start scar care protocols. This depends on your healing stage and the location of your scars, but it can include basic steps like avoiding sun exposure (which can cause dark scarring) or more intensive options like laser resurfacing. Other options include scar ointments or topicals, and silicone sheets. A combination of these techniques can also be beneficial, just be sure to discuss anything you do with Dr. Diamond first.
Genetics
Some patients are simply more susceptible to raised, darkened scars or keloids. If this is true for you, let Dr. Diamond know so he can suggest other options or help you stay on top of your scar care as soon as possible.
Interested in a Neck Lift in Beverly Hills, CA?
A neck lift with legendary facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Jason B. Diamond, is the ultimate rejuvenating procedure that will look natural and stunning. Whether combined with a facelift or performed alone, a neck lift is the best way to tame aging symptoms and reveal a more youthful you. Call The Diamond Face Institute today at (310) 859-9816 or fill out the contact form to request a consultation.