Neck Lift for a Youthful Look

The skin on the neck becomes loose, forming jowls and muscle bands that look like cords. The remedy is a neck lift – a surgical procedure that creates a smoother, tighter, younger-looking neck. Dr. Small has extensive experience performing successful neck lifts for his patients. The procedure is popular with both men and women and is frequently done at the same time as a facelift.

Everything you Need To Know Neck Lift Overview

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Dr Small truly is a wonderful surgeon who knows what needs to be done. Thank you for your expertise and thank you for making me feel better about myself. I look forward to our continued doctor patient relationship. Your staff is also amazing and all so nice.

C. Eberle

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Spotlight on Dr. Stephen E. Small Elegant, Customized Neck Lift Results in Toms River

For over 18 years, Dr. Small has been helping patients to achieve the most ideal version of themselves possible through customized, innovative, aesthetic procedures. His passion for cosmetic surgery began at the age of nine when he experienced a serious burn accident and required assistance from a highly skilled plastic surgeon. That early treatment journey inspired in him a deep desire to help others in a similar fashion, assisting them to reclaim their confidence and quality of life. Today, Dr. Small considers it a privilege to deliver nuanced, natural-looking results for those in and beyond Ocean County, New Jersey. He believes that every patient is uniquely beautiful, and his only job is to reveal and accentuate that natural beauty.

Dr. Small is a board-certified plastic surgeon who excels in the art of reconstructive, laser, and cosmetic procedures. He obtained his medical degree with honors from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) before embarking on a demanding 5-year general residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Stratford. Additionally, he pursued an intensive one-year burn and reconstructive fellowship at New York Medical College, Valhalla, and served as a resident and chief resident in plastic surgery for several years at Ohio University, South Pointe Hospital-Cleveland Clinic Health System.

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Neck Lift Procedure Overview

Scope:

A neck lift addresses loose, sagging skin, creases and lines, vertical neck bands, and submental fullness.

Anesthesia:

General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation can be used.

Treatment Time:

Neck lift surgery usually takes 1-3 hours to complete.

Recovery:

Most people take 1-2 weeks off from work to recover. Strenuous exercise should be postponed for around 4-6 weeks.

Neck Lift Before & After

What Is a Neck Lift?

Neck lift surgery provides dramatic, lasting cosmetic results by correcting multiple signs of aging, such as sagging skin, creases and lines, vertical neck bands, jowls, and stubborn fat beneath the chin. While the procedure can be performed on its own with outstanding results, it is also commonly paired with a facelift, neck liposuction, blepharoplasty, or other restorative procedures. 

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What Are the Benefits of a Neck Lift?

A neck lift in Toms River and Stafford Township comes with a wide array of impressive benefits, including the following:

  • Restores a taut, youthful-looking profile
  • Trims excess skin, fat, and tissue
  • Corrects loose platysma muscles
  • Boosts confidence and self-esteem
  • Long-lasting results
  • Can be combined with other aesthetic options
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Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Neck Lift in Ocean County?

If you have previously tried non-surgical solutions for skin laxity in the neck, such as dermal fillers or energy-based treatments, but are now looking for more dramatic, long-lasting changes, you may be an ideal candidate for a neck lift. To qualify, you need to be a healthy non-smoker who is free from any uncontrolled medical issues that might increase your risks.

Additionally, you should have positive yet realistic expectations for what a neck lift can achieve. Dr. Small provides an in-depth consultation process that includes a physical examination and a thorough review of your medical history. Through his careful research, he will ensure no contraindications are present and that your procedure will be safe and successful. 

The Neck Lift Procedure

The incisions for a neck lift can often be made behind the ear, where the scars will remain hidden. The surgery may be performed using a general anesthetic or a local anesthetic with sedation. Excess skin and muscle tissue are trimmed, and the muscles are tightened if necessary. Liposuction is used in most cases to remove extra fatty tissue.

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Recovering from a Neck Lift

A neck lift will result in some soreness, bruising, and swelling for a week or two, depending on the extent of your surgery. Most people take 1-2 weeks off from work to recover. You can take pain medication and use cold compresses to ease discomfort, and keeping your head elevated will also make your recovery time easier. It will be necessary to sleep on your back for a period of time

Dr. Small will remove your sutures within 7-10 days after your surgery during a follow-up appointment. He will closely watch your progress and will tell you everything you need to know to heal fast and well. This will include avoiding certain things like hair dryers, curling irons, and exercise for a little while.

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Neck Lift Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Complementary Procedures With a Neck Lift?

Many people have a facelift in conjunction with a neck lift, but other procedures may also be desirable for an overall anti-aging effect. These include a brow lift, eyelid lift, and/or dermal fillers in the neck to smooth any residual fine lines and wrinkles.

How Much Does a Neck Lift Cost?

Because each neck lift is unique, pricing can vary depending on the techniques utilized by the doctor, the extent of skin laxity present, and whether you undergo other cosmetic procedures at the same time. Dr. Small understands the value of transparency when it comes to pricing, and he will provide a detailed quote for services upon the completion of your private consultation.

Is a Neck Lift Painful?

Patients rest peacefully under anesthesia or sedation during their surgery and do not feel any pain or discomfort. After surgery, it is normal to experience minor swelling, bruising, and tightness in the neck. Any lingering soreness can be well managed with prescription or over-the-counter pain medications, ice packs, and compression garments. Dr. Small will provide a detailed aftercare plan to make the healing process as smooth as possible.

How Long Does a Neck Lift Take?

Neck lift surgery usually takes 1-3 hours. However, it can take longer if you are undergoing a facelift, neck liposuction, dermal fillers, or facial fat transfer at the same time. Dr. Small will give you a more accurate surgery time estimate at your consultation.

How Long Until I See Results?

Swelling and bruising after a neck lift can temporarily obscure your outcome. However, as these side effects begin to dissipate, you will gradually see firmer neck contours and a reduction in signs of aging. By the three-month mark, most patients experience a dramatic transformation. However, all residual swelling can take up to six months to fully resolve. Make sure to follow Dr. Small's postoperative instructions for best results.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Neck Lift?

Dr. Small is a board-certified cosmetic authority with over 18 years of expertise. He adheres to stringent safety protocols to ensure your health and well-being. Despite this, certain inherent risks exist with every cosmetic procedure. For a neck lift, these risks include the following:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Infection
  • Tightness
  • Temporary numbness
  • Scarring
  • Poor reactions to anesthesia
  • Asymmetry
  • The need for a revision

Are There Non-Surgical Options for Neck Rejuvenation?

Dr. Small performs energy-based skin-tightening treatments, dermal fillers, and laser therapy for those who seek a non-invasive treatment option. However, these solutions are not typically effective for those with more pronounced skin laxity.

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Get Started With a Private Consultation in Ocean County Today!

Contact Ocean Plastic Surgery P.A. and Laser Center today to find out more about how a neck lift can help you look younger.

At our Toms River and Manahawkin locations, we serve patients from all over the New Jersey Shore and beyond, including Stafford Township, Barnegat, Lacey, Berkeley, Dover Township, Brick, Little Egg Harbor, Manchester, Jackson, Howell, Wall, Freehold, Manalapan, and Point Pleasant.

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