Leo Lapuerta, MD Plastic Surgery - Houston, TX
There are a variety of factors that can have a negative impact on the appearance of the neck: weight loss, genetics and simply getting older can result in sagging skin, causing individuals to look much older than they actually are. Dr. Lapuerta performs neck lift surgery for patients throughout the Houston, Pearland, and Katy area who wish to achieve a tighter, more enhanced neck. Dr. Lapurta is an expert when it comes to the neck lift procedure, with over two decades of experience helping patients in Texas revitalize their youthful appearance.
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that aims to tighten the muscles and skin surrounding the neck. Dr. Lapuerta typically divides this surgery into two procedures, platysmaplasty and cervicoplasty. Platysmaplasty is used to alter the neck muscles, while cervicoplasty is the removal of excess skin. Liposuction may also be used if existing fat pockets need to be removed to achieve the patient’s desired results.
Patients seeking a neck lift are often troubled by excess fat within their neck, jowls in the neck area, or too much loose skin. For weight loss patients, Dr. Lapuerta recommends that patients be at or near their goal weight. Patients need to be in good overall health and have realistic expectations regarding the results of the procedure. Patients should have an in-depth discussion with Dr. Lapuerta prior to surgery, allowing him to answer any and all questions they may have. Dr. Lapuerta is able to communicate with patients in a relatable, down to earth way that can clearly and effectively help the patient understand every step of the procedure and the neck lift recovery process.
A neck lift will address several issues, including the removal of excess fat, the trimming of hanging skin, and the tightening of loose skin around the underlying neck muscles. An incision is made under the chin, and in some cases, behind or in front of the ears. If fat removal is part of this surgery, liposuction will be the first step. Next, the neck muscles (platysma) are pulled tight and the overlying skin is stretched and re-draped to achieve the desired definition. Sutures are placed deep within the neck wall and a drain may be inserted to control bleeding.
A neck lift is considered an outpatient procedure, performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. Dr. Lapuerta will perform neck lift surgery at his accredited on-site operating room and surgical facility, giving patients convenient access to a cutting-edge surgery center. This surgery typically takes two hours to complete, but that will vary by surgical case.
After surgery, there will be some bruising and swelling. Patients will feel tightness and a pulling sensation as the neck adjusts to its new position. While discomfort following surgery should be manageable, if patients find that they are in a lot of pain, medication can be administered to make sure the patient is comfortable. Most patients are able to return to work and have a full neck lift recovery within 7-10 days following the surgery. While the recovery process is quite short, it can take several months for the optimal results to appear and for the neck to look and feel natural. While patience is key, if you perceive any irregularities during neck lift recovery, contact a doctor as soon as possible.
The cost for a neck lift procedure will vary depending on the extent of the surgery and whether liposuction was used. If the surgery is combined with another cosmetic facial procedure, then the neck lift cost will increase. In general, most patients can expect to pay between $4,000-$6,000 for a complete neck lift.
In order to get an accurate neck lift cost estimate, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lapuerta. Dr. Lapuerta will partner with the patient to make sure their aesthetic goals are met, examining the neck and medical history to help determine the best treatment moving forward. Once Dr. Lapuerta has clearly communicated his vision to the patient, he can then provide an accurate neck lift cost quote. To schedule a neck lift consultation, contact Dr. Lapuerta today.